Women who accused Omotoso of rape say they've received threats since his acquittal
During the first press briefing since the legal blow earlier in April, the women lamented the criminal justice system and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for failing to secure a conviction against the previously rape and trafficking accused.
Rape-accused Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso and his two co-accused have been acquitted on all charges, including rape, racketeering, human trafficking, and assault. Picture: Sipha Kema
JOHANNESBURG - The women who testified as witnesses in the rape and trafficking trial of controversial televangelist Timothy Omotoso say they have received threats since the judgment that acquitted the church leader.
During the first press briefing since the legal blow earlier in April, the women lamented the criminal justice system and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for failing to secure a conviction against the previously rape and trafficking accused.
Omotoso was acquitted after a lengthy court battle earlier in April, in what has been another blow for the NPA.
His acquittal presented new challenges for the women who accused him of rape and sexual assault.
Not only do they feel like justice was not done, but they also allege that their safety is now at risk too since the leader of the Jesus Dominion International Church was acquitted of the 32 charges against him.
According to Lerato Msibi, they have also been stalked on social media platforms by the congregants of the church in an effort to embarrass them.
“Not only have we been threatened, but we've also been, because like everyone, everybody knows the behaviour of the people of the church. They would do anything, they would do just about anything to make sure that they are protected or they get favoured from their church leader.”
The women, who appeared quite emotional, also said they do not feel safe.
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