A South African court has found Nigerian televangelist Tim Omotoso not guilty of 32 charges, including rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking, nearly eight years after his arrest.
Court Ruling and Judge’s Decision
Delivering the verdict on Wednesday, Judge Irma Schoeman of the Eastern Cape High Court criticized the prosecution’s handling of the case.
“The accused are found not guilty and are discharged on all charges,” she ruled, stating that prosecutors failed to prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.
While the judge admitted that Omotoso’s explanations seemed improbable, she emphasized that the burden of proof rested on the prosecution.
Omotoso’s Reaction
Omotoso, 66, the senior pastor of Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church, fell to his knees and prayed as the verdict was read.
Allegations and Protests
Omotoso was arrested in 2017, following accusations that he:
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Handpicked young women from his church for alleged sexual encounters.
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Prayed for forgiveness after each act.
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Had some victims who were part of a gospel group called Grace Galaxy or still in school.
The case had sparked outrage, with women’s rights activists and dozens of protestors picketing outside the courthouse in Gqeberha during the verdict.
South Africa’s Battle Against Sexual Violence
Omotoso’s acquittal comes amid growing concerns over sexual violence in South Africa, where:
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42,500 rapes were reported in 2023-2024, according to police.
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A seven-year-old girl was allegedly raped at her school last year, yet no arrests have been made.
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Thousands of people recently protested in multiple cities, demanding stricter action against sexual crimes.
