Mabesekwa woman pleads guilty to concealing birth

Esnath Samuel | Tuesday June 25, 2019 14:19

 

Matshidiso Marokolo was arrested after the incident took place on October 19, 2015. 

This was after she secretly gave birth without acknowledging to anyone her pregnancy. 

According to the charge sheet, Marokolo attempted to hide the baby’s dead body after giving birth by herself. 

The accused person who seemed uncomfortable and confused did not seem to comprehend her charges when read out to her. 

She also struggled to answer when asked if she will hire legal representation on her own expenses or defend herself. 

After further explanation she stated that she would be representing herself. 

“I don’t have any money so I guess I will stand for myself,” she said. 

Magistrate Cele Lebakeng stopped proceedings of the court and raised a concern that the accused might be in need of psychiatric help looking at her behaviour. 

“Maybe it’s the after effect shock from the incident or stage fright, but it’s better if we know what we are dealing with,” she said. 

Prosecutor Moatlhodi Macheng stated that the issue has been taken into consideration and the accused will get the necessary help. 

“The accused will be checked if she is in the right state of mind as her unusual behaviour is something that delayed proceedings of this case,” he explained. 

However, when asked for her plea Marokolo pleaded guilty to the offence. 

The accused is set to appear again before court on July 24 for sentencing. 

 Lebakeng advised Marokolo to come prepared for mitigation before court since she will be representing herself.