Omotoso case: prosecution failed the victims
Media Statement by Thandi Nontenja, MP and UDEMWO Secretary General
The United Democratic Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) expresses deep concern over the handling of the case against Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho.
After nearly eight years of legal proceedings, the High Court in Gqeberha has acquitted all three accused due to shortcomings in the prosecution's case. This outcome raises serious questions about the efficiency of our justice system and the rights of victims seeking justice.
Justice delayed is justice denied. For almost a decade, the complainants in this case have been waiting for a fair and decisive resolution. The prolonged delays, inadequate cross-examination and mishandling of evidence have ultimately resulted in a failure to secure a conviction. This is a devastating setback not only for the complainants but for all South Africans who rely on the courts to uphold justice and protect victims of crime.
The court acknowledged that while there were inconsistencies in the complainants' testimonies, the evidence presented by the defence was not properly tested due to prosecution failures. This highlights the urgent need for reforms in how complex criminal cases, especially those involving gender-based violence (GBV) and human trafficking, are handled.
UDEMWO calls on the National Prosecuting Authority to urgently review this case and ensure that such procedural failures do not happen again. Victims of serious crimes must not be subjected to drawn-out trials that end in technical acquittals due to prosecutorial weaknesses. We also urge government and legal authorities to strengthen investigative and prosecutorial processes to prevent similar injustices in future.
South Africa cannot afford a justice system that fails victims due to inefficiency and unnecessary delays and criminals being set free to perpetrate further crimes against hapless victims; especially GBV victims.
UDEMWO will continue to advocate for a legal system that delivers timely and effective justice for all.
