By Akani Nkuna
Political parties and labour have condemned the acquittal of self-proclaimed prophet, Timothy Omotoso on charges of rape, sexual assault and human trafficking.
They argue that the verdict exposes failures of the justice system, particularly in protecting women and children.
The verdict stunned both supporters of the pastor and critics.
Omotoso and his co-accused, senior church members Lusanda Solani and Zukiswa Sitho, were accused of luring female congregants to his church, forcing them to perform sexual acts and restricting their freedom to leave.
“The acquittal of Nigerian evangelist Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused after an exhausting eight-year legal battle is yet another devastating blow to survivors who bravely came forward seeking justice,” the Economic Freedom Fighters said in a statement on Wednesday.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo criticised the ruling, saying it was not only a failure of the courts but also a reflection of the prosecution’s mishandling of
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