Mother gets 15 years for murder of baby

In sentencing Atamelang Lesole, High Court Judge Terrence Rannowane told her that as a mother her actions were not only revulsive but also morally repugnant. "You have in cold blood, deliberately and without any compassion smothered to death your own baby who had done you no harm and infact looked up to you for protection, love and support," said Rannowane. Rannowane stated that as aggravating factors he took into account that the offence of murder is without doubt the gravest crime imaginable against a fellow human being.

Human life is sacred and it is the duty of the courts and all stakeholders in the criminal justice system to ensure that it is protected, said Rannowane. This, he said can in part be achieved by ensuring that those who kill fellow humans be given stiff sentences. "This would not only show the courts disapproval but would hopefully deter prospective offenders," asserted Rannowane.