In a case that captured the nation’s attention, Sibusiso Zitha (41) was found guilty today by the Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg for the murder of his girlfriend, renowned pastry chef Thembekile Letlape, affectionately known as the “Pastry Princess
Zitha pleaded guilty to the murder charge, and the court accepted his plea following a request from the defense to postpone sentencing proceedings. A pre‑sentence report is scheduled to be compiled ahead of the sentencing hearing on August 28, 2025
Tragic Incident Unfolds
Letlape was discovered deceased on May 30, 2024, in Zitha’s Fourways home, where the couple lived together. According to court testimony, during a domestic argument while Letlape was preparing food, Zitha attacked her in the presence of his ten‑year‑old daughter, who was watching a movie in another room. He stabbed Letlape multiple times in the face and chest, and she died at the scene
Related Charges and Family Reaction
Beyond the murder charge, Zitha faces additional allegations of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property, and perjury charges stemming from complaints by his ex‑girlfriend dating back to 2022. These charges have been consolidated into the main murder indictment
Expressing relief at the outcome, National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane welcomed the conviction and affirmed confidence that the eventual sentence will reflect the severity of the crime.
Justice and Legacy
Letlape, founder of The Pastry Princess patisserie, was widely respected for her wedding cakes, confectioneries, and signature desserts. Her death was mourned across South Africa, with many calling for accelerated justice in cases of gender‑based violence.
Dr Kgosi Letlape, her father and former Chair of the South African Medical Association, had previously described the prolonged judicial process as emotionally draining for the family, emphasizing the trauma of repeated court delays and the enduring impact of the loss.
Next Steps
- Final sentencing is currently set for August 28, 2025, after completion of the pre‑sentence investigation.
- Zitha remains in custody pending the sentencing hearing.
- The outcome is expected to reinforce South Africa’s ongoing effort to fight gender‑based violence and femicide.