Pretoria — The Special Investigating Unit has revealed that the permanent residence permit granted to fugitive televangelist Shepherd Bushiri was approved by a Department of Home Affairs official who was a member of his church.
The SIU made the disclosure as part of its ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities within the Department of Home Affairs, raising fresh questions about how Bushiri obtained legal status in South Africa despite facing serious criminal charges.
Bushiri, leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church, fled South Africa in 2020 while out on bail, returning to Malawi despite facing charges including fraud and money laundering. His departure triggered a diplomatic and legal dispute between South Africa and Malawi.
According to the SIU, the official who processed and approved Bushiri’s permanent residence application was allegedly affiliated with his church, creating a clear conflict of interest. Investigators are now probing whether due process was followed and whether immigration rules were bypassed.
The SIU said its investigation forms part of broader efforts to root out corruption and maladministration within Home Affairs. The matter could have significant implications for immigration oversight and accountability within the department.
Bushiri has consistently denied wrongdoing and maintains that he fled South Africa due to safety concerns and alleged persecution. Extradition proceedings between South Africa and Malawi remain ongoing.
The latest revelation intensifies scrutiny around the processes that allowed Bushiri to obtain permanent residence status, and whether internal safeguards failed.
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