Self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, have challenged a Malawian court ruling that granted their extradition to South Africa.
Earlier this month, the Malawi Chief Resident Magistrate Court approved South Africa’s request to extradite the couple.
The Bushiris, who led the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church (ECG) in Pretoria, were arrested in 2020 and granted bail of R200,000 each. However, they fled to Malawi under suspicious circumstances despite their passports being seized, prompting South Africa to seek their return.
Legal Battle Over Extradition
South Africa has been pursuing the couple’s extradition so they can stand trial for multiple charges, including:
- Rape
- Violating bail conditions
- Contravening the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act
- Breaching the Banking Act, Civil Aviation Act, and Immigration Act
According to reports, the Bushiris cited a lack of confidence in the South African justice system as the basis for their appeal against the ruling.
Government’s Response
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mamoloko Kubayi dismissed the appeal as a delaying tactic.
She emphasised that the government, along with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), remains committed to ensuring the couple is returned to South Africa.
Kubayi stated that criminals often seek to evade justice, highlighting that Bushiri had been granted bail but violated his conditions. She argued that if he had nothing to hide, he would not have fled.
While there is no confirmed timeline for the Bushiris’ return, Kubayi noted that South Africa cannot dictate how Malawi handles its legal processes.
However, she expressed confidence that the necessary legal requirements have been met and that the couple will eventually have to return and face trial.
