Johannesburg – The Lilongwe Magistrate Court in Malawi has ruled that fugitives Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary – must be extradited to South Africa to face charges of fraud, money laundering, and corruption.
The Chief Resident Magistrate Judge Patrick Chirwa made the ruling today, Wednesday,(12 March 2025).
Commenting on the matter the South African government said it welcomed the ruling.
“We have been informed that the pair intends to appeal the ruling,” said South Africa’s Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
“The South African government will oppose the appeal.”
However, the department said it 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,”‘ the department said.
In 2020, Prophet Bushiri founder of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church and his wife Mary appeared before two different courts in South Africa on multiple criminal charges.
They were granted bail pending trial but failed to comply with their bail conditions and fled from South Africa under unknown circumstances.
They were later located in Malawi.
Following this, South Africa submitted an extradition request to Malawi, seeking their return to stand trial on various charges, including:
- Rape
- Violating bail conditions
- Contraventions of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act,
- Banking Act,
- Civil Aviation Act, and
- Immigration Act
“This decision reaffirms judicial independence, international cooperation, and public trust in the South African and Malawian legal institutions,” the department.
“Today’s ruling is a significant milestone in international legal cooperation, demonstrating the strength of both countries’ judicial frameworks and diplomatic engagements.
“It 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.”
This case has drawn significant public and media attention, highlighting broader issues of corruption and accountability.
“It also underscores the critical role of legal agreements and treaties in tackling transnational crime and ensuring that justice is served, regardless of borders.” the department said.
“South Africa remains committed to strengthening legal and diplomatic partnerships to ensure that fugitives are brought to justice and that legal systems remain fair, credible, and effective.”
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, serving as South Africa’s Central Authority, said it was collaborating with the Malawi Central Authority and engages with INTERPOL, the National Prosecuting Authority, and the South African Police Service.
“Once received, INTERPOL, in collaboration with the South African Police Service, will coordinate the transfer arrangements and logistics. The State will cover all associated costs,” the department said.
“Upon receipt, INTERPOL, in collaboration with the South African Police Service, will coordinate the arrangements and logistics for the transfer.
“The associated costs will be borne by the State.”
