Kabelo Masoabi
THE High Court has sentenced 25-year-old Chafole Maome of Peka Ha Lepholisa in Leribe to a measly M5000 fine after finding him guilty of culpable homicide.
The court imposed a fine of M15,000, of which M10,000 was suspended for three years, on condition that he pays M5000 by tomorrow (Friday).
In addition, Acting Justice Tšooana Lesaoana ordered Maome to pay M30,000 in compensation to the victim, Thabo Mponye’s family. The amount must be settled in full by the end of May 2026 in what appears to be a restorative justice arrangement.
The court heard that the incident occurred on 22 November 2019, when Maome was 18. On that day, his brother, Kamoho, was being pursued by family members for allegedly stealing M7,000, bank cards and a family business vehicle, a 4+1 taxi. Maome later found him at a bar in Mahobong Ha Mokausi.
An altercation between the brothers escalated into a chase in the street, with Maome armed with an Okapi knife. Mr Mponye, who knew both men, intervened in an attempt to stop the confrontation, but was fatally stabbed in the process.
The court was told that shortly after the incident, Maome and his father rushed the injured Mr Mponye to hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival.
Maome pleaded guilty to culpable homicide. The court also heard that his family covered most of the funeral costs, except for the coffin, which was provided through a burial scheme. It further emerged that the deceased’s family had initially declined a M30,000 compensation offer, as they were still grieving.
In sentencing, Justice Lesaoana took into account Maome’s age at the time of the offence and his expression of remorse. She said his immediate actions after the stabbing, including suggesting that the victim be taken to hospital, pointed to regret and an attempt to save his life.
Defence counsel, Advocate Molapo, argued that Maome had acted out of immaturity and emotional impulse, and urged the court to avoid a custodial sentence, saying it would be tragic for another life to be lost through imprisonment. He confirmed the family’s willingness to pay compensation, acknowledging that no amount could replace the deceased.
The court heard that Maome now works in the informal sector in Cape Town, South Africa, and is the sole breadwinner in his family following the death of his brother. His father has since retired from mining.
Justice Lesaoana noted that both families had reached a mutual understanding and maintained a cordial relationship. She described Maome’s direct apology to the Mponye family as rare and significant.
“It is not common for an accused person to stand face to face with the family of the deceased and express remorse in such a direct manner,” she said, adding that the gesture marked the beginning of healing for both families.
The court further held that the compensation order and spirit of reconciliation were meaningful steps towards the accused’s rehabilitation, while emphasising the seriousness of the offence and the sanctity of human life.
It was also noted that Mr Mponye did not leave behind a wife or children.
