The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) has announced its intention to appeal the acquittal of televangelist Timothy Omotoso, who was found not guilty of rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking charges. Source image: EWN
The National Director of Public Prosecution (NDPP), Shamila Batohi, stated that the acquittal of televangelist Timothy Omotoso undermines the effectiveness of the South African justice system. On April 2, 2025, Judge Irma Schoeman found Omotoso not guilty at the Gqeberha High Court.
On May 13, 2025, the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) announced its intention to appeal the judgment, which acquitted Omotoso and two co-accused, including Zukiswa Sitho, of charges such as rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Omotoso had faced allegations of sexually assaulting members of his church, Jesus Dominion International (JDI), including congregants, employees, and individuals participating in church activities.
The NPA spokesperson, Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga, confirmed the appeal, stating that the decision was made after consulting senior counsel and conducting a thorough review by experienced prosecutors.
In a separate development, Omotoso appeared before the East London court on May 12, 2025, after being apprehended on May 10, 2025, for allegedly violating the Immigration Act. The Department of Home Affairs had declared him a prohibited immigrant while he was incarcerated. However, the East London Magistrate’s Court granted him freedom, blocking his deportation until his application challenging the Department of Home Affairs’ decision is reviewed.
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