Omotoso, a televangelist and head of the Jesus Dominion International church, was accused by nearly 20 women of sexual abuse, with several alleging rape. The case, widely followed since 2017, became a symbol of South Africa’s broader struggle with sexual violence. Some of the alleged victims were still minors when the reported assaults occurred.

Although the court found Omotoso’s version of events questionable, the judge ruled that the prosecution’s mishandling of the case made a conviction impossible. The decision prompted public protests outside the courthouse in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), where many expressed frustration over the outcome.

Following the acquittal, Omotoso, 66, was arrested again — this time for immigration-related offences. He is also facing separate charges, including human trafficking.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) maintains that there is a strong basis for an appeal and has launched an internal review into the conduct of the legal teams involved. A full report is expected in June, and disciplinary measures may follow if any wrongdoing is uncovered.

Omotoso’s church, which operates branches in South Africa, Nigeria, and Israel, has not commented publicly on the developments.

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