Heartache as alleged child killer’s case is postponed, again

Judgment in the high-profile case of Amber-Lee Hughes, accused of raping and murdering her partner’s four-year-old daughter Nada Challita, has once again been postponed — this time to next Thursday.

The delay, granted by Judge Richard Mkhabela in the Johannesburg High Court on Thursday morning, follows Hughes’ decision to appoint a new legal team who requested more time to prepare.

“It is the accused’s right to choose or change legal representation at any stage, however, it is also equally true that the interest of justice requires us the matter should be finalised expeditiously as possible,” said the judge.

Dressed in a black long-sleeve shirt and jeans, Hughes appeared composed as she stood in the dock.

Behind the scenes, both her former and newly appointed lawyers met with the judge in chambers — ultimately leading to the adjournment.

Judge Mkhabela made it clear that while the defense team must be given time to consult, justice must not be delayed any further.

This postponement marks yet another snag in a trial already beset by delays, which have included claims about Hughes’ mental state, her former lawyer falling ill, and multiple procedural holdups.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said it understood the reason for the postponement, but warned that continued delays are retraumatising the victim’s family.

Nada was found drowned in a bathtub in January 2023. Her father, Elie Challita, says the delays are emotionally exhausting and prevent the family from finding closure.

“This is another tactic, another deliberate delay, I think there’s no tricks in the books and we should be expecting them soon after this trick,” says Challita.

He accused Hughes of exploiting the legal system to avoid accountability and said the latest delay has brought renewed pain — especially as Nada would have celebrated her 10th birthday this month.

“I can’t tell you about that – sorry,” he told journalists.

Hughes faces two counts of rape and one of murder, and has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Her new legal team is expected to meet with her this weekend before deciding on next steps, which may include launching new legal applications.

Judge Mkhabela instructed the state to confirm by next Thursday whether it will oppose any such motions. Written by Lebohang Ndashe