The sentencing of self-confessed murderer Amber Lee Hughes took a shocking turn on Wednesday, as she gave a detailed account in court of how she killed four-year-old Nada-Jane.

Hughes described her actions in her own words, citing heartbreak and betrayal over her relationship with Elie Challita as a factor in the tragedy.

Taking Nada-Jane’s life

Hughes told the court how she ended the life of the child, explaining the moments leading up to the act.

After killing Nada-Jane, she said she went to the garage, where Elie Challita’s work equipment and large Jojo tanks were stored, and tied a noose on a ledge. She recalled bleeding on the garage floor after a fall, sitting for a while as she thought about her relationship and everything that had happened that day.

She then returned to the house, changed into a red and white dress, and cut her right wrist with a small knife she found among the dishes she was washing. Hughes tried to hang herself from a wooden jungle gym in the garden but ended up breaking a piece of it.

@southern.courierThe convicted accused describes in detail how she took the life of Nada-Jane at her Mulbarton home, citing feelings of betrayal and heartbreak, as sentencing proceedings continue at the Johannesburg High Court. Full story on southerncourier.co.za♬ original sound Southern Courier

She told the court: “I thought that the only reason for me to save Nada was by taking her life, so I didn’t think. I ran to the bathroom and got into the bath. Before I got into the bath, I said to her, ‘I’m sorry, I love you so much.’ Nada didn’t fight. I sat on top of her and pushed her head under the water.”

Feelings of betrayal

Hughes told the court that her actions were influenced by feelings of betrayal in her relationship with Elie Challita. She said she discovered that he was seeking sexual services from other women in Polokwane, which left her heartbroken and confused.

“I felt betrayed, and it felt like our whole relationship was a lie. I had sacrificed so much for Elie and for Nada. I emphasised that throughout the day,” she said.

She explained that throughout her relationship with Elie Challita, the only insecurity she had was regarding Nada-Jane’s biological mother. Elie had continued interactions with the mother due to an ongoing custody battle, which led to frequent arguments.

Evidence of Elie Challita’s actions

Hughes testified that she obtained images from Elie Challita’s WhatsApp account linked to her laptop a few days before January 23, 2023, showing his attempts to contact at least eight other women for sexual services.

@southern.courierHughes testified that she obtained images from Elie Challita’s WhatsApp account linked to her laptop a few days before January 23, 2023, showing his attempts to contact at least eight other women for sexual services. Full story on southerncourier.co.za

♬ original sound – Southern Courier

She confronted him with the images, which contributed to her state of mind that day.

She described the relationship with Elie Challita as “up and down,” noting that he had previously been physically abusive toward her, including kicking her out of the house.

Court proceedings continue

Hughes’ testimony forms part of ongoing sentencing proceedings at the Johannesburg High Court. Defence attorney Marius Bouwer has been addressing aspects of the case, while Judge Richard Mkhabela continues to oversee the proceedings.

Further updates on the sentencing are expected as the court hears more from Hughes and reviews evidence related to the case.