Malawi Court Orders Extradition of Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and Wife
The Chief Resident Magistrate Court in Lilongwe, Malawi, has ordered the extradition of Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, to South Africa to face multiple charges, including fraud, rape, and bail-jumping.
Bushiri, a self-proclaimed prophet and founder of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church, has been at the center of controversy surrounding his dramatic escape from South Africa in November 2020 while out on bail.
The court’s decision marks a significant development in a legal battle that has been ongoing for over two years.
The South African government has welcomed the ruling, stating that it reaffirms judicial independence, international cooperation, and public trust in the South African and Malawian legal institutions.
Despite the ruling, the Bushiris’ lawyer, Wapona Kita, has requested bail for the couple, arguing that the extradition order should be paused. The state has not objected to the bail request, leaving the court to decide on the matter.
The case is expected to move to the High Court and could ultimately reach the Supreme Court of Appeal.
As the legal battle continues, the South African government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening legal and diplomatic partnerships to ensure that fugitives are brought to justice and that legal systems remain fair, credible, and effective.
The circumstances surrounding Bushiri’s escape from South Africa remain shrouded in mystery, with speculation surrounding his use of President Lazarus Chakwera’s presidential plane to flee.
The aircraft was subjected to rigorous searches by South African authorities before Chakwera was allowed to depart for Malawi.
As the Bushiris await their fate, their extradition is seen as a major victory for the South African government in its efforts to bring fugitives to justice.
–Malawi24
