Pastor Timothy Omotoso and his co-accused Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho.
Image: Photo: Raahil Sain/ANA
Community activist and whistleblower Pamela Mabini was shot dead in the driveway of her home in KwaZakhele, Gqeberha on Friday
Image: . Photo: Facebook
The recent assassination of Pamela Mabini, the pivotal whistleblower in the Timothy Omotoso sexual abuse case, has cast a dark pall over South Africa's pursuit of justice for women. Mabini, a 46-year-old community activist from KwaZakhele, Gqeberha, was tragically shot dead in her vehicle outside her home on March 7, 2025.
Pastor Timothy Omotoso is in prison for rape and indecent assault. Mabini's unwavering commitment to supporting victims in the Omotoso trial was evident through her regular attendance and advocacy.
Her tragic death has intensified concerns about the safety of women who courageously come forward to expose abuse.
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi expressed profound sorrow over Mabini's murder, emphasising the critical role of whistleblowers in the justice system. Kubayi condemned the act and called for enhanced protections for those who assist in legal proceedings. This ordeal shows our weakness in protecting whistleblowers.
People are afraid to speak out because of victimisation and death.
Every organisation must adopt a whistleblower policy, a mandate on how to protect those who speak out against society’s ills. One death is one too much