Lusaka man sentenced to life imprisonment for brutal murder of one-moth old baby

The Lusaka High Court has sentenced Musonda Mulume, 28, of Zingalume compound, to life imprisonment for the murder of a one-month-old baby.

Justice Vincent Siloka found Mulume guilty of murder, concluding that he acted with intent when he struck the infant’s head against the ground, causing multiple fatal injuries.

The tragic incident occurred on November 23, 2023.

Evidence presented during the trial indicated that Mulume, in a violent outburst, repeatedly struck the baby’s head, an act confirmed by witness testimony and forensic reports.

“In hitting the baby’s head twice on the floor, he knew that serious injury would result,” stated Justice Siloka, referencing Section 204 of the Penal Code.

Mulume also faced a second charge of wounding another individual with a knife but was acquitted due to lack of evidence.

During sentencing, Justice Siloka considered his plea for leniency, noting his youth, employment, and role as a caregiver for his ailing father.

However, the judge emphasised the gravity of the crime, describing it as “unthinkable” and condemning the use of violence against an innocent baby.

In his ruling, Justice Siloka reflected on Mulume’s actions following a dispute over the whereabouts of his girlfriend, noting, “I understand these are matters of the heart, but there was an alternative, amicable way to resolve them. My hands are tied; there is no other sentence I can impose except mandatory life imprisonment.”

Mulume has filed an appeal with the Court of Appeal.

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