JOHANNESBURG - Convicted child rapist and murderer Amber-Lee Hughes claims she regrets killing Nada-Jane Challita.
She has told the court that the actions of the little girl’s father pushed her to commit the crime.
Amber-Lee details events around the day she drowned Nada-Jane. Says she was left confused after finding out Elie was trying to buy the services of sex workers while he was away in Polokwane, especially as they had a good sex life.@eNCA pic.twitter.com/j5B8hac0Jz
— ✨ Hloni Mtimkulu ✨ (@HloniMtimkulu) February 18, 2026
This was heard when the self-confessed killer appeared before the High Court in Johannesburg on Wednesday.
The former preschool teacher was found guilty of raping and killing her ex-boyfriend's four-year-old daughter.
The little girl was found drowned in a bathtub at her home in 2023.
READ: Closing arguments in Amber-Lee Hughes murder case
During her testimony she said, "I think about that day everyday while being incarnated. I know that deep down she did not deserve to go out like that,"
Amber-Lee Hughes expresses regret for killing Nada-Jane Challita. Says Elie's actions drove her to it.@eNCA pic.twitter.com/rjV4zYexsi
— ✨ Hloni Mtimkulu ✨ (@HloniMtimkulu) February 18, 2026
Hughes concluded her defence in mitigation of sentence at the High Court.
When proceedings will continue on Thursday with the state cross-examining Hughes
It is expected that it will argue that Hughes deserves a harsh sentence.