NPA to appeal Omotoso's controversial acquittal despite deportation

TODAY, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is expected to begin its appeal on July 14, in the case of Nigerian pastor and televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused at the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in Gqeberha.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

The ruling sparked widespread backlash, with civil organisations, political parties, and Gender-Based Violence activists criticising the NPA for failing to present a strong case against Omotoso. Many viewed the verdict as a miscarriage of justice.

According to NPA national spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga, the court will hear the first part of the appeal process following a directive from Judge Irma Schoeman.

The directive came after the State submitted a request for clarification of factual findings in her judgment, which is required before it can request the reservation of questions of law under Section 319 of the Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 for consideration by the Supreme Court of Appeal.