Zuko Komisa
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has officially announced its intention to appeal the recent ruling by the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in Gqeberha, which acquitted controversial pastor Timothy Omotoso and two co-accused on over 30 charges, including rape and human trafficking.
The decision comes after Judge Irma Schoeman’s April ruling that the state had not provided sufficient evidence to prove the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt. This verdict sparked widespread disappointment and anger, particularly among women’s rights advocates.
During the trial, the court heard harrowing testimonies from survivors who detailed alleged manipulation and sexual exploitation by Omotoso, with some victims claiming they were as young as 14 at the time of the alleged abuse.
The state’s case hinged on these accounts, aiming to demonstrate a pattern of abuse of power and exploitation within Omotoso’s church structures.
Following the acquittal, the NPA faced criticism, notably from women’s rights activists who argued that the outcome represented a failure by the prosecution to secure justice for the survivors.
The decision to appeal signals the NPA’s commitment to pursuing the case further and challenging the High Court’s findings.
NPA to Appeal Omotoso Judgment pic.twitter.com/JTJUmmlNbD
— NPASouthAfrica (@NPA_Prosecutes) May 13, 2025
The NPA’s spokesperson emphasised the gravity of the allegations and the importance of ensuring justice for the complainants.
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