South Africa’s Prosecutors Challenge Acquittal of Nigerian Pastor
Today, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will present the initial phase of its appeal regarding the case of Timothy Omotoso and his co-defendants at the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in Gqeberha.
The NPA is contesting Omotoso’s acquittal on all 32 charges, which include rape and human trafficking, following an eight-year trial.
This action by the NPA comes in response to significant public outcry from citizens, civic groups, and the alleged victims of Omotoso after he and his co-defendants were released from the charges.
Although Omotoso has already returned to Nigeria, the NPA believes it can successfully pursue him this time.
“This follows a directive from Judge Schoeman after the State requested clarification on factual findings in her judgment, which is necessary before the State can seek the reservation of legal questions under section 319 of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977, for review by the Supreme Court of Appeal.
This represents the sole limited avenue through which the state can appeal an acquittal under South African law,” stated the NPA.
The verdict in this case has prompted calls for Advocate Shamila Batohi, the head of the NPA, to resign due to diminished public confidence in the authority’s prosecutorial capabilities.
However, Batohi has defended the NPA’s efforts and committed to delivering justice for Omotoso’s victims and others affected by various crimes nationwide.
