Criminal sentencing issued in Zimbabwe and Lesotho

In separate judicial proceedings in Zimbabwe and Lesotho, two men have received significant prison sentences for violent crimes.

In Zimbabwe, Nkululeko Moyo was sentenced to 17 years in prison by the Zvishavane Regional Magistrates’ Court. Moyo was convicted of twice raping a woman in a bush near Mberengwa. The court heard that the assaults occurred after Moyo allegedly used a broken beer bottle to intimidate the victim. The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe condemned the act, emphasizing its commitment to prosecuting gender-based violence.

In Lesotho, Moruti Mapola was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment for the murder of Tšeliso Chabalala. The High Court found Mapola guilty of murder without direct intent following a fatal confrontation in Mokhotlong in 2017. The incident, which stemmed from allegations of marital infidelity, resulted in Chabalala sustaining 14 stab wounds. While Mapola pleaded not guilty, the court determined the killing occurred during a violent confrontation.