Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, are set to be extradited to South Africa after a Malawian court ruled in favor of the request from Pretoria. The decision, delivered by Malawi’s Chief Resident Magistrate Court, marks a significant turning point in the couple’s years-long legal battle to evade prosecution.
The Bushiris, who head the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church, are wanted in South Africa on multiple charges, including fraud and money laundering involving an estimated R102 million. They fled to Malawi in November 2020, just days after securing bail of R200,000 each under strict conditions at the Pretoria Central Magistrate’s Court.
Following their escape, South Africa formally submitted an extradition request in December 2020, seeking their return to stand trial. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development welcomed the court’s ruling, describing it as a crucial affirmation of legal cooperation between the two nations.
“This decision reinforces the principle that no one is above the law and underscores the strength of both South African and Malawian legal institutions,” the department stated. It further noted that the ruling demonstrates accountability, transparency, and the effectiveness of international legal collaboration.
The South African government has been working closely with Malawi’s Central Authority, Interpol, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to secure the couple’s return.
However, the legal battle is far from over, as the Bushiris have indicated their intent to appeal the ruling. The justice department confirmed it is prepared to oppose any appeal and will await the formal outcome of the legal process.
“If the couple does not pursue an appeal, South Africa will await official notification from Malawi’s Central Authority. Upon confirmation, Interpol, in coordination with SAPS, will arrange the extradition logistics, with the state covering all associated costs,” the department added.
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