Floyd Shivambu, secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe party, has faced severe backlash following his attendance at an Easter service led by Shepherd Bushiri, a pastor who fled to Malawi amid multiple fraud and rape allegations.
South African Party Leader Under Fire for Controversial Pastor Visit
South African Party Leader Under Fire for Controversial Pastor Visit
A senior official's meeting with a fugitive pastor accused of serious crimes sparks outrage.
Shivambu's visit has drawn rebuke from various quarters, including South Africa's Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, who denounced it as a disrespectful act toward the nation’s legal system. The MK party subsequently insisted that Shivambu acted independently from the party's interests. The pastor, Bushiri, has been a controversial figure known for his extravagant claims of miracle work and is currently battling extradition requests from South African authorities. His ability to elude legal accountability has raised concerns about justice and accountability in the region. In a social media post, Shivambu praised Bushiri, igniting further public outcry for his perceived endorsement of an accused criminal. This incident has sparked a broader conversation within South Africa about the interplay between faith, politics, and accountability.
Shivambu’s involvement with the MK party comes amid a politically charged environment, as the party attempts to find its footing after a significant loss in last year's elections. The political landscape remains tense as parties grapple with issues of integrity and the exploitation of vulnerable communities.
Shivambu’s involvement with the MK party comes amid a politically charged environment, as the party attempts to find its footing after a significant loss in last year's elections. The political landscape remains tense as parties grapple with issues of integrity and the exploitation of vulnerable communities.
