S outh Africans have reacted with fury and disappointment following the acquittal of Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused in a high-profile rape case. The ruling has sparked widespread backlash, with many viewing it as a miscarriage of justice.
Judge’s Verdict Sparks Outrage
On Tuesday, Judge Irma Schoeman of the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
“I am of the view that although there are aspects of the complainant’s evidence that are satisfactory, I cannot find that the evidence is incredible. However, I cannot find that the evidence of the accused should be rejected as false either. This is because the evidence was not placed in dispute during cross-examination,” Schoeman stated.
The decision left key witness Cheryl Zondo devastated. She expressed fears that Omotoso would continue preying on other women.
“The main concern wasn’t even knowing what he did to us; it’s knowing that he is not going to stop, but he will continue to do this to other women,” Zondo lamented.
Political and Civil Society Reactions
The ruling triggered public outrage, with civil rights groups condemning the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for failing to secure a conviction. Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have been flooded with criticism of South Africa’s justice system.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) also condemned the verdict, accusing the NPA of failing victims of gender-based violence (GBV).
“The NPA has once again failed the victims of gender-based violence. Many survivors already fear reporting crimes due to police victimisation and neglect by healthcare workers,” the party stated.
Government Response and Future Legal Steps
South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has called for a detailed report on the trial’s outcome.
“I have decided to invoke Section 33(a) of the NPA Act in relation to the Omotoso and others case,” Kubayi announced, signaling possible further legal review.
Following the verdict, the NPA stated it would review the judgment and explore potential legal recourse.
Whistleblower Killed Amid Case Developments
In a shocking twist, community activist and whistleblower Pamela Mabini, who was closely involved in the case, was shot dead in early March while sitting in her car in the driveway of her KwaZakhele, Gqeberha home.
Meanwhile, Eastern Cape NPA spokesperson Luxolo Tyali confirmed that Omotoso will be deported back to Nigeria.
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