PORT ELIZABETH - Government representatives have condemned the cross-examination of witness Cheryl Zondi in the pastor Omatoso rape and trafficking trial.
Both the Minister of Women in the Presidency, Bathabile Dlamini, and Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Women have saluted Zondi's bravery and fortitude.
But they've described the line of questioning by Omoatoso's lawyer, as brutally inhumane and unnecessary.
They say such behaviour stops survivors of sexual violence from breaking their silence.
On Wednesday, Zondi opened up about the psychological effects of what she had gone through.
She told the Eastern Cape High Court in Port Elizabeth about the coping mechanisms she developed as a result -- like drinking alcohol and wearing all black -- as she fell deeper into depression and even tried to take her own life.
She says she even sought counselling before she eventually went back to Omotoso's Jesus Dominion International Church.
As the judge postponed the case until Monday, outside court emotions ran high.
A group of protesters attacked Omotoso's attorney Peter Daubermann, asking him why he's defending the rape-accused pastor before turning on Omotoso's supporters.
