Amber Lee Hughes, convicted of the murder of Nada-Jane Chalita, took the stand again on February 20 at the Johannesburg High Court to explain her actions and motivations leading up to the murder.

Hughes stated that her WhatsApp conversations with Elie Chalita, the victim’s father, focused mainly on Nada-Jane and also revealed a deeper emotional connection between the two.

According to Hughes, Chalita had asked to meet with her during 2021, when she started looking after Nada-Jane.

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Amber Lee Hughes was back in the dock at the Johannesburg High Court on February 20 for sentencing proceedings. #amberleehughes #JoburgHighCourt #CoJ #ComfortSegredos

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Hughes spoke about how their relationship reached a point where she felt jealous of the attention Chalita gave to Nada-Jane’s biological mother while he was pursuing a relationship with her.

Hughes then explained why she ended up calling child welfare services, claiming she was concerned about Nada-Jane’s well-being, but also acknowledged that her actions were motivated by a desire to hurt Chalita.

Hughes explained that she had felt neglected by Chalita and had lashed out by damaging his property and ultimately murdering his daughter. She also alleged that Chalita had physically assaulted her during their relationship.

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The court heard that Hughes had initially wanted to plead guilty only to murder, but was advised by her former lawyer, Michelle Ives, to plead not guilty to all charges because she was advised by Ives that she had to plead guilty or not guilty to all counts against her.

She said she did not know that she could have pleaded guilty to the murder charge only. Hughes admitted to lying under oath during a previous plea explanation, blaming her former attorney for the mistake.

The judge questioned the validity of Hughes’ testimony, given her previous dishonesty.  Hughes responded that she had now received proper legal counsel and was committed to telling the truth.

The case was then postponed to March 12, when the State prosecution will call its witnesses.

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