South African Politician Faces Backlash for Supporting Fugitive Pastor

Hailing from the uMkhonto weSizwe party, secretary-general Floyd Shivambu is under fire for his public support of Shepherd Bushiri, a pastor who fled South Africa amid serious legal charges. Critics argue this undermines the country's justice system, as detailed by government officials and the MK party itself.

South Africa's political scene is rife with controversy as Floyd Shivambu, the secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, has come under fire for visiting Shepherd Bushiri, a self-proclaimed pastor who fled to Malawi after facing allegations of rape and fraud. The backlash intensified after Shivambu retweeted a video showing him attending an Easter service at Bushiri's church, prompting significant condemnation from various quarters.

Bushiri, a well-known figure in southern Africa, was arrested in 2020 on multiple fraud charges but evaded justice after being released on bail and subsequently fleeing to his native Malawi. Although a Malawian court recently approved South Africa's extradition request, Bushiri and his wife Mary—a co-defendant facing similar charges—have launched an appeal against the ruling.

Known for his extravagant lifestyle and influence across Africa, Bushiri allegedly exploited vulnerable communities, promising miraculous cures and life-changing religious services, which have resulted in countless individuals being financially exploited. Accusations against him include selling various religious merchandise, including a so-called "miracle oil," and more serious charges such as rape, which he has denied.

South Africa's Minister of Justice, Mmamoloko Kubayi, publicly criticized Shivambu's actions, labeling his support for Bushiri as a "blatant act of disrespect toward South Africa's legal system." Kubayi warned that such associations could undermine public confidence in accountability. In response, Shivambu's party has distanced itself from his actions, stating his visit was made "in his personal capacity" and emphasizing their condemnation of gender-based violence and exploitation disguised as faith.

In his social media posts, Shivambu lauded Bushiri for his community contributions, stating that his efforts to uplift impoverished individuals are "unparalleled." The MK party, formed by former President Jacob Zuma, noted their own third-place finish in the recent elections, which marked a significant moment in South Africa's political landscape, as the governing African National Congress lost its long-standing majority.

As the situation unfolds, the implications of Shivambu's visit reverberate through the political and social fabric of South Africa, reigniting conversations around justice and accountability in the country's political sphere.