Admin
03 Apr, 2025
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.
Admin
18 Oct, 2018
Omotoso trial: Dauberman’s questioning is immoral and unethical
Since the start of the Tim Omotoso trial, the past few days have been nothing but the most unbearable time for women in South Africa. It is so overwhelming to witness the young and brave rape survivor, Cheryl Zondi being grilled in the manner that the defence Advocate Peter Daubermann did. In our view, his morals and ethics are questionable. The United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (UDEMWO) views Daubermann as heartless and would do anything to promote the rape and abuse towards women. He seemingly has no conscience whatsoever. In as much as we respect the justice system, we believe that he crossed the line in so many ways with the questions he continued to ask Zondi. The victims have borne so much already; to be questioned as if they enjoyed what happened to them is not acceptable. Daubermann cannot be allowed to make fun of such an unfortunate situation. We commend Cheryl for her bravery and if we keep quiet about the manner in which she was treated in court we will be failing, not only her, but all the affected victims. UDEMWO rallies behind the Commission for Gender Equality’s decision to approach the judiciary and the General Council of the Bar regarding the unfair treatment of rape victims in court. This matter could have been handled better. UDEMWO strongly believes that many women will rather not report cases of abuse due to the treatment victims get in court. We continue to commend the bravery shown by all the witnesses in this case. We still maintain and believe that this case is strong enough for those involved to face the wrath of justice. We call upon the men in collar to show support to the victims in this case. The time has come that the wolves in sheep’s clothing be exposed. We have been calling upon our government to thoroughly screen these so-called men of God. This issue must be taken seriously. Issued by: Thandi Nontenja UDEMWO Secretary General
