A Johannesburg High Court has sentenced Katlego Solomon Ledwaba, aged 33, to life imprisonment for the murder of his girlfriend, Agnes Thabane, following a brutal domestic violence incident that began on her birthday.According to evidence presented in court, the couple were in a romantic relationship and lived together in Hillside, Mapetla.On 10 November 2024, which was Thabane’s birthday, Ledwaba assaulted and strangled her at their residence, inflicting severe injuries.Three days after the attack, Thabane began suffering seizures as a result of the injuries sustained.Ledwaba later took her to hospital, where she was admitted for medical treatment.Despite efforts by healthcare professionals, she died on 14 November 2024.A post-mortem report confirmed that her death was caused by neck compression consistent with strangulation.

During sentencing proceedings, senior state advocate Job Masina told the court that the accused had subjected the deceased to repeated violence over two consecutive days, set against a background of ongoing domestic abuse within the relationship.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) emphasised that the defence’s argument that Ledwaba showed remorse by seeking medical assistance was rejected by the court, which found that he failed to take responsibility for his actions.

In handing down the sentence, the court highlighted the severity of intimate partner femicide, describing it as a profound betrayal by someone who should have provided safety and care.The judge further ruled that factors such as jealousy and alcohol consumption could not be considered mitigating circumstances.

The ruling was described by prosecutors as sending a strong message that violence against women will be met with the harshest penalties available under the law.