The Malawian Chief Resident Magistrate Court has ruled that self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, be extradited to South Africa to face multiple charges, including fraud and rape. The couple fled the country in 2020 after they were granted bail by the Pretoria Magistrates Court.

RULING WELCOME

The court has also ordered that Bushiri, who is the leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church, and his wife remain in custody until they are handed over to South African authorities. However, his lawyer, Wapona Kita, has requested bail for the couple as they will be appealing the court ruling. Justice Minister Mamoloko Kubayi has welcomed the ruling. According to Kubayi, South Africa submitted an extradition request to Malawi, seeking their return to stand trial on various charges, including rape, violating bail conditions, and contraventions of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, Banking Act, and Aviation Act. "This decision reaffirms judicial independence, international cooperation, and public trust in the South African and Malawian legal institutions. Today's ruling is a significant milestone in international legal cooperation, demonstrating the strength of both countries' judicial frameworks and diplomatic engagements," Kubayi said.

THE STATE TO COVE EXTRADITION COSTS

The minister said 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 South Africa and Malawi. Kubayi said that her department has been informed that the couple intends to appeal the ruling. "The South African government will oppose the appeal. The department will await the outcome of the appeal process if they proceed. If they choose not to pursue the appeal, the department will await formal notification from the Central Authority of the Republic of Malawi," she added. According to Kubayi, once the department receives a formal extradition notification from Malawi, Interpol, in collaboration with the SAPS, will coordinate the transfer arrangements and logistics. "The state will cover all associated costs," Kubayi said.