KEY POINTS
- The Justice Ministry is reviewing a report on prosecutorial failures in the Timothy Omotoso case after Minister Kubayi demanded answers from the NPA.
- Omotoso’s acquittal has triggered public outrage, with critics blaming the NPA for mishandling the high-profile rape and trafficking trial.
- Legal experts and activists are calling for systemic reforms, while the NPA remains silent on whether it will appeal the court’s decision.
The Justice Ministry has confirmed receipt of a damning report detailing the conduct of prosecutors who mishandled the high-profile rape and human trafficking case against Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso.
The report, now under review by Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, follows her 48-hour ultimatum to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi to explain the critical failures that led to Omotoso’s acquittal last week.
“The minister is currently studying the contents of the report and further commentary shall be made after the minister has concluded her review,” said Justice Ministry spokesperson Terrence Manase in a statement to Eyewitness News.
The eight-year trial, marred by delays and legal missteps, culminated in a shocking verdict when the Eastern Cape High Court cleared Omotoso and his two co-accused of all charges, including rape, human trafficking, and racketeering.
Judge Irma Schoeman’s ruling highlighted the prosecution’s failure to properly cross-examine Omotoso, a pivotal error that undermined the state’s case.
Public and legal backlash intensifies
The EWN reports that the acquittal has sparked widespread outrage, with activists, legal experts, and opposition parties demanding accountability. Advocacy groups have criticized the NPA for its handling of the case, citing a pattern of systemic inefficiencies in prosecuting gender-based violence (GBV) cases.
“This is not just a failure of one case—it’s a failure of our justice system to protect vulnerable women,” said Thandiwe Mkhize, spokesperson for Women Against Violence. “The NPA must explain why such a critical case was bungled.”
Minister Kubayi has vowed to pursue all avenues to rectify the miscarriage of justice, including potential disciplinary action against the prosecutors involved. Legal analysts suggest that the NPA could still appeal the judgment, though no official decision has been announced.
Meanwhile, Omotoso, who had been in custody since his 2017 arrest, has returned to Nigeria. In a brief statement, he said, “I thank God, I give Him all praise.” His acquittal has reignited debates over South Africa’s extradition agreements and the accountability of foreign nationals accused of crimes in the country.
