End of the road for fugitive Bushiri?
Government has welcomed a Malawian court ruling that self- proclaimed prophet Shepherd and Mary Bushiri be extradited to SA to face numerous charges including fraud and rape.
Justice & Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has welcomed the ruling by the Republic of Malawi's Chief Resident Magistrate's Court.
As previously reported, the fugitives in 2020 appeared before two different courts in SA on multiple criminal charges.
News24 reports that Bushiri, who is the leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church, and his wife were arrested for fraud and money laundering of about R102m linked to an investment scheme.
They were granted bail pending trial but failed to comply with their bail conditions and fled the country in unknown circumstances.
IoL reports that SA submitted an extradition request to Malawi, seeking the Bushiri’s return to face charges, including, rape, violating bail conditions, contraventions of the Contraventions of the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, Banking Act, Civil Aviation Act, and Immigration Act.
TimesLIVE reports that the court also ordered that the couple remain in custody until they are handed over to SA authorities.
‘This decision reaffirms judicial independence, international co-operation and public trust in the SA and Malawian legal institutions,' the Department of Justice & Constitutional Development said.
It said Wednesday's ruling was a significant milestone in international legal co-operation, 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 SA and Malawi.'
IoL reports that the government had been informed that the couple intended to appeal.
‘The SA Government will oppose the appeal. The department will await the outcome of the appeal process if they proceed. If the couple choose not to pursue the appeal, the department will await formal notification from the central authority of Malawi. Once received, Interpol, in collaboration with SA Police, will co-ordinate the transfer arrangements and logistics. The state will cover all associated costs.’
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
