Self-styled fugitive Malawian prosperity gospel preacher Shepherd Bushiri says he will only return to South Africa if authorities promise to keep him out of jail.
But, for now, it’s business as usual – with allegations that thousands of worshippers from all over the world visit him weekly in Malawi for spiritual deliverance.
In an emailed response, Bushiri’s spokesperson, Ephraim Nyondo, said: “If South Africa meets the conditions for his safety, and guarantees they will take him to trial and not prison-like last time, then he will come.”
Bushiri and his wife, Mary, fled from South Africa to Malawi in November last year, violating bail conditions that were set after he was arrested in connection with a multimillion-dollar money laundering case.
The Couple is wanted in South African on charges of theft and money laundering in South Africa.
Bushiri is a self-proclaimed prophet and leader of his Enlightened Christian Gathering Church, which claims over 70 branches worldwide.
He and his wife and two others are accused of stealing $6.6 million through theft, money laundering, and fraud in South Africa.
According to Nyondo, what the prophet wants is to have a fair trial in South Africa. There hasn’t been an indication of him having a fair trial there.
Bushiri’s escape coincided with President Lazarus Chakwera’s official visit to South Africa, which fueled suspicions that the president was part of Bushiri’s exit plan.
This led to a diplomatic spat when Chakwera’s flight was detained at Waterkloof Air Force Base on Friday, the same day the fugitives failed to report on police bail.
