The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has announced it will study the recent judgment by the High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division, which acquitted televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikswa Sitsho, on all 32 charges brought against them.
Judge Irma Schoeman delivered the ruling, finding that the trio was not guilty on the basis of a procedural technicality. The court noted that former state prosecutors had improperly conducted cross-examinations, rendering the process flawed. The judgment highlighted that the accused were not sufficiently cross-examined during the earlier phases of the case.
In response, the NPA confirmed that its prosecuting team will review the full judgment and explore potential legal avenues for further action.
“This is not the end,” said Luxolo Tyali, NPA Regional Spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Division. “The NPA does not pursue convictions at all costs, but we are committed to justice and will explore all options available to ensure accountability and closure for the victims.”
The high-profile case has drawn national attention since the arrest of the accused in April 2017, and has since been delayed by several interlocutory applications from the defence, including Constitutional Court challenges.
In January 2024, five new applications were filed, including motions to discharge the accused under Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act. The prolonged trial process led to several witnesses withdrawing due to trauma and time lapse, further weakening the state’s case.
Despite the setback, the NPA has reiterated its commitment to justice and victim support. “We will go to all lengths to give a voice to the victims by exploring all possible avenues,” Tyali stated.
