South Africa’s political analyst Ralph Mathekga has admitted that the tourism sector of the Rainbow Nation is likely to be affected following the escape of Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary.
Mathekga remarks were a reaction to the announcement made by the leader of Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) that this year’s cross over service will be held in Malawi at Bingu National Stadium in the capital Lilongwe.
According to the political analyst, a lot of people form the walks of all life used to travel into the country each and every year Bushiri and his wife have conducting business in the country to be partakers of his cross over nights.
Recalling some cross over events held in Pretoria and FNB stadium, Mathekga said economically, the country is affect as tourist’s were coming to see Bushiri but was quick to add that the activities were being driven by fraud.
“Indeed, moving the crossover might affect tourism in the country, but do you want to create tourism out of something controversial such as this?” asked Mathekga.
He therefore stressed that it is still embarrassing that Bushiri managed to dupe the South Africa security and fled the count for Malawi and that he is able to conduct business as usual.
“It is an interesting test on regional cooperation, especially with regards to extradition. It is more embarrassing that he is going on about his business as usual back in Malawi.” He said.
Bushiri and his wife are wanted by the South African government where they are answering charges of fraud and money laundering, adding to that Bushiri is also wanted for rape charges.
Meanwhile, Malawi government has been served by the South African government formal request to extradite the Bushiris.
However, Malawians, including chiefs and religious leaders are calling on government not to give up Bushiri and his wife saying they are obliged to be protected as Malawi citizens.
Government has said it will leave the matter in the hands of the court.
