Preacher and Spouse Face Legal Battle Over Allegations of Fraud, Sexual Assault
A Malawian court has ordered the extradition of self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary Bushiri. This is to take place in South Africa, where they will face charges of rape and financial crimes.
South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, welcomed the ruling that the Chief Resident Magistrate Court in Malawi delivered on Wednesday.
The Bushiris had previously appeared in South African courts in 2020 on multiple criminal charges. The authorities granted them bail, but they later violated the conditions and fled the country under unclear circumstances. Authorities eventually located them in Malawi, prompting South Africa to file an extradition request.
The couple faces numerous allegations, including rape, violating bail conditions, and breaches of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, the Banking Act, the Civil Aviation Act, and the Immigration Act.
Kubayi emphasized the importance of the ruling, stating that it underscores judicial independence and strengthens international cooperation in legal matters.
“This decision reaffirms the principle that no one is above the law and highlights the importance of accountability, transparency, and adherence to legal frameworks in both South Africa and Malawi,” she said.
The high-profile case has sparked widespread public and media interest, bringing attention to broader issues of corruption and accountability. Kubayi stressed the importance of international legal agreements in combating transnational crime.
South Africa remains committed to reinforcing diplomatic and legal partnerships to ensure fugitives face justice, she added. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development is working closely with Malawi’s Central Authority, INTERPOL, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to facilitate the extradition process.
Kubayi also confirmed that the Bushiris intend to appeal the ruling.
“The South African government will oppose the appeal. If they proceed, we will await the outcome. If they do not appeal, the Department of Justice will expect formal notification from Malawi’s Central Authority,” she said.
Once that notification is received, INTERPOL and SAPS will handle the logistics and coordination of their transfer. The South African government will be covering all associated costs.
