INFO:

The acquittal of Timothy Omotoso is a devastating blow to survivors of gender-based violence in South Africa. After spending eight years in jail facing over 60 charges - including rape, sexual assault, racketeering, and human trafficking - Timothy Omotoso, along with his co-accused Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, was acquitted of all charges by the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha on 2 April 2025. This outcome follows years of delays and the courageous testimonies of survivors, including Cheryl Zondi, who bravely spoke out about the horrific abuse they endured within Timothy Omotoso’s church - including grooming, manipulation, and repeated sexual assault. This horrific decision sends a chilling message: justice for survivors remains elusive. We are deeply troubled by the State’s mishandling of this case and the justice system’s ongoing failure to hold perpetrators accountable. We honour every survivor who came forward with unimaginable bravery and stand by them in their pain and disappointment. Yesterday, the country marched for Cwecwe. Today, we are once again witnessing the system fail those who need it most. Gender-based violence and femicide is a national crisis. It must be declared a National Disaster.