Police have stepped in to prevent violent clashes outside the East London Magistrates Court, where supporters of Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso faced off against members of various political parties. Omotoso, who was arrested on Saturday for allegedly breaching immigration laws, is at the centre of heated protests just a month after being acquitted of serious rape and sexual offence charges.
Omotoso’s recent troubles stem from a decision made by the Minister of Home Affairs, which rejected his application to overturn an earlier ruling that marked him as a prohibited person in South Africa. Following this ruling, police apprehended him for contravening the Immigration Act, setting the stage for a tense and charged atmosphere outside the court.
Supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and African National Congress (ANC), alongside community members, gathered outside the court in significant numbers. The crowd expressed a strong desire for Omotoso’s deportation, voicing their frustrations at what they deemed governmental harassment of their leader. According to community sentiment, regardless of the court’s verdict on Monday, there is a steadfast consensus that Omotoso should be expelled from South Africa.
Inam Kula, a member of the EFF central command team, articulated their stance: “We are here to demonstrate to and say to the judiciary and home affairs that we do not want Omotoso here in South Africa and that he has no place in South Africa.” This declaration resonates with the sentiments of many who believe Omotoso’s continued presence poses a threat, particularly following his recent acquittal.
The unfolding narrative surrounding Omotoso not only highlights broader issues such as immigration and legal reform but also the community’s deep-seated sentiments regarding leadership and accountability.