The Congressional Judiciary Committee has expressed concern over the acquittal of televangelist Timothy Omotoso over 32 serious charges, including allegations of rape, assault, human trafficking and other crimes.
On Wednesday, Judge Irma Schoeman of Gqeberha High Court acquitted the pastor and his co-acced Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho.
In response to the verdict, Judiciary Committee Chairman Xola Nqola described the outcome of the case as “an attack on the Fighting Gender-Based Violence (GBV).”
“This is absolutely unacceptable, and we need national indictment authorities to explain the weaknesses of the team and the cases they presented.
“In addition, the acquittal comes just days after community activist and whistleblower Pamela Mabini, who was shot dead in a car in Gqeberha, the driveway at Kwazakere’s home.
“It appears we’ve failed women because she’s gone, especially as the courts called poor cross-examinations a contributor to acquittal,” Nqola said.
Optional evaluation
In a statement, the national prosecutor’s agency said it is studying the ruling and will consider legal options.
“After giving a verdict, Judge Irma Scheman has discovered that the prosecutors before the case were acting inappropriately, that the accused were not fully cross-examined by the state, and that the trio is not innocent because of their skills.
“So the prosecution team will study the verdict and decide which legitimate measures to explore.
“The NPA is committed to ensuring that justice is provided to victims of crimes, unless they are trying to secure a conviction at all costs, and will strive to give their victims a voice by exploring all possible paths,” the NPA said.
