Justice and Correctional Services Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has issued a stern warning against political figures aligning themselves with individuals who are fugitives from justice, following uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party secretary-general Floyd Shivambu’s public endorsement of self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri.
Shivambu recently visited Malawi to attend Bushiri’s annual Easter church service, where he praised the controversial pastor — despite Bushiri being a fugitive facing serious criminal charges in South Africa, including rape and large-scale financial misconduct. Bushiri fled South Africa in 2020, violating his bail conditions.
In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Minister Kubayi expressed concern over Shivambu’s actions, stating that such endorsements risk legitimizing Bushiri’s defiance of the South African legal system. While Kubayi clarified that the government cannot take direct legal action against Shivambu, who holds no public office, she emphasized the broader implications of his conduct.
“As a leader, you have obligations, and you can’t simply go and promote a foreign national who has fled from the law,” Kubayi said. “We can’t afford South Africans to undermine the justice system by associating with individuals who are fugitives.”
The incident has drawn widespread criticism, with political analysts warning that such associations could damage public confidence in the justice system. The MK Party has since distanced itself from Shivambu’s actions — a move Kubayi welcomed.
“I appreciate what uMkhonto weSizwe has done in distancing themselves from this incident,” she noted, calling it a “positive step” toward upholding the rule of law.
Kubayi also addressed the ongoing extradition proceedings aimed at bringing Bushiri back to South Africa. She confirmed that the government has submitted a formal extradition request and remains confident in its legal position.
“We are confident that the appeal will go in our favor, and Bushiri will be brought back to South Africa,” she said, adding that the government hopes to see progress before the end of the year.
Bushiri’s legal team is reportedly working to narrow the scope of charges he could face upon return, but Kubayi insists the state is prepared to proceed robustly.
The minister concluded by reiterating her call for political leaders to act responsibly and uphold the constitutional values of accountability and justice.
“The integrity of South Africa’s legal system must be protected. We cannot allow public figures to erode that by aligning with fugitives,” she said.