With the world celebrating Mandela International Day on Tuesday, Thapelo Edwin Mojaki (41), was going to start his life sentence for killing his pregnant wife, 36-year-old Matshidiso Catherine Mojaki.
The National Prosecuting Agency (NPA) has expressed its satisfaction with his sentencing after Mojaki tragically killed his pregnant wife in front of their children. The NPA commends the court's decision to hold the perpetrator accountable for his heinous act.
Mojaki was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Taung Regional Court on Tuesday for the murder of his pregnant wife, Matshidiso.
Mojaki pleaded guilty to the offence, which was met with approval from the NPA.
Dr Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, along with Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the Provincial Commissioner, commended all those involved in ensuring that the perpetrator faced the consequences of his actions.
They also emphasised the need for solid advocacy against gender-based violence and femicide within communities.
Thapelo's conviction stems from an incident on October 9 2022 in Kolong village near Taung. That day, Mojaki approached his wife, who was on her way to catch a taxi to work, accompanied by their 16 and 18-year-old children.
He demanded money from her, and when she stated that she didn't have any, he attacked her with sheep-shearing scissors, stabbing her multiple times. Tragically, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Mojaki was apprehended the following day, and the court denied him bail.
During the sentencing phase, the state prosecutor, Tecia Khula, urged the court to adhere to the prescribed minimum sentence, citing the absence of compelling circumstances to warrant a deviation.
Khula also highlighted the emotional trauma experienced by the couple's children, who witnessed their pregnant mother fatally stabbed by their father.
Magistrate Buti Zulu agreed with the state's arguments during the imposition of the sentence, emphasizing that the accused had a responsibility to protect his family rather than perpetrate crimes against them.
The outcome of this case serves as a significant step towards justice for Matshidiso Catherine Mojaki and sends a strong message against domestic violence and its devastating consequences.
The NPA, alongside law enforcement agencies, continues to advocate for the eradication of gender-based violence and femicide, urging communities to unite in combating these issues and creating safer environments for all individuals.
