Support and controversy surround embattled televangelist Omotoso

THE legal battle surrounding Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso continues to polarise South Africa, as the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Eastern Cape has officially filed for an appeal against the recent High Court ruling in Gqeberha.

- SIFISO MAHLANGU

Last month, Judge Irma Schoeman cleared Omotoso and his two co-accused of multiple rape and human trafficking charges.

The decision sparked immediate backlash, particularly from women's rights groups and the African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL), who argue that the justice system has once again failed victims of gender-based violence.

NPA spokesperson, Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga, stated that the appeal decision was not taken lightly. "This is a complex case involving a voluminous transcript. However, after careful analysis by a team of experienced prosecutors and external legal counsel, we believe there are reasonable prospects for a successful appeal," Mhaga explained.