Lesotho Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Murdering His Girlfriend

• Aaron Matete sentenced to 20 years for killing Mpho Gift Mphatsoe.
• Matete also received a 12-month sentence for immigration law violation.
• The brutal attack occurred during an argument on October 12, 2024.
• Prosecutor emphasized rising gender-based violence in Khuma.
• Authorities hope this verdict deters future GBV incidents.

Court Sentences Matete for Violent Crime Against Partner

Lesotho Man Receives 20-Year Sentence for Girlfriend’s Murder Aaron Matete, a 23-year-old Lesotho national, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison following the killing of his girlfriend, Mpho Gift Mphatsoe, aged 29. This ruling was handed down on July 9, 2025, at the Stilfontein Regional Court. In addition to the murder charge, Matete also received a 12-month sentence for violating the Immigration Act of 2002, specifically Section 49(1)(a).

Evidence Points to Extensive Violence and Delay in Reporting

Details Emerge Surrounding Brutal Attack The court learned that the tragic incident occurred on October 12, 2024, following a heated argument at their residence in Khuma Township. Prosecutors revealed that Matete used a beer bottle to strike Mphatsoe in the face before the violence escalated to stabbings with a knife, ultimately leading to her death. After the brutal act, Matete did not contact authorities; instead, he left Mphatsoe’s body in their home overnight before informing her mother the following day, which led to police involvement. Officers arrived to a scene of horror, discovering Mphatsoe with numerous stab wounds and significant blood loss.

Judicial Action Viewed as Deterrent Against GBV

Prosecutor Highlights Concerns of Gender-Based Violence Matete remained in custody throughout his trial and, despite his not-guilty plea, was convicted based on the strong evidence presented by the prosecution. In the aggravation of the sentence, state prosecutor Chris Kok emphasized the increasing prevalence of murder and gender-based violence (GBV) within Khuma, a community noted for such crimes, some involving foreign nationals, including individuals from Lesotho. The sentence was met with approval from local officials, including Dr. Rachel Makhari, Director of Public Prosecutions for the North West, who praised all involved in the case and expressed hope that this judgment would deter future GBV incidents in South Africa.

In summary, Aaron Matete’s 20-year prison sentence underscores the judiciary’s commitment to tackling violence against women and reflects the broader societal issue of gender-based violence in communities like Khuma. The strong evidence against Matete and the reaction from authorities signal a concerted effort to combat such heinous crimes, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and justice.