In a landmark ruling, the Malawian Chief Resident Magistrate Court has ordered the extradition of self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, to South Africa. The couple will face multiple charges, including fraud, rape, and contraventions of various financial and aviation laws ¹.
Bushiri, the leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church, and his wife fled South Africa in 2020 after being granted bail by the Pretoria Magistrates Court. The South African government subsequently submitted an extradition request to Malawi, seeking their return to stand trial.
Justice Minister Mamoloko Kubayi has welcomed the ruling, stating that it reaffirms judicial independence, international cooperation, and public trust in the South African and Malawian legal institutions. Kubayi emphasized that the ruling reinforces the principle that no one is above the law and underscores the importance of accountability, transparency, and adherence to legal frameworks in both countries ¹.
The couple’s lawyer, Wapona Kita, has requested bail as they intend to appeal the court ruling. However, the South African government will oppose the appeal, and the department will await the outcome of the appeal process.
Once the appeal process is concluded, Interpol, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), will coordinate the transfer arrangements and logistics. The state will cover all associated costs.
Key Charges Against Shepherd Bushiri and Wife:
- Fraud: allegedly committed in South Africa
- Rape: allegedly committed in South Africa
- Violating bail conditions: fled South Africa after being granted bail
- Contraventions of financial and aviation laws: allegedly committed in South Africa
