By Stephen Matenga
Blantyre, Malawi – A Malawian magistrates courts has granted an extradition request to South Africa for televangelist Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary on various charges that include rape, and fraud.
Bushiri and his wife fled from justice in South Africa in 2020 .
The South African welcomed the ruling on the Bushiris extradition matter delivered by the Malawi’s Chief Resident Magistrate Court.
In 2020, Shepherd and Mary Bushiri 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 the country 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,” South Africa’s Ministry of Justice said.
“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,” the Justice Ministry said.
The South Africa Justice Ministry said if the Bushiris do not appeal to the decision the extradition processes will start.
“If they choose not to pursue the appeal, the Department will await formal notification from the Central Authority of the Republic of Malawi,” the South Africa Justice Ministry said.
“Once received, INTERPOL, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), will coordinate the transfer arrangements and logistics. The State will cover all associated costs,” the Ministry added
“Upon receipt, INTERPOL, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), will coordinate the arrangements and logistics for the transfer. The associated costs will be borne by the State.”