South African Politician Under Fire for Supporting Fugitive Pastor

The visit raises questions about accountability and the ethical stance of political figures toward legal issues involving high-profile fugitives in South Africa.

A leading member of South Africa's uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, Floyd Shivambu, has sparked controversy after attending an Easter service at the church of Shepherd Bushiri, a fugitive pastor accused of serious crimes including rape and fraud. Bushiri, previously a prominent religious figure in southern Africa, fled to Malawi in 2020 after being charged but has resisted extradition attempts made by South Africa.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi criticized Shivambu's actions as a "blatant act of disrespect toward South Africa's legal system," arguing that it could encourage others to evade accountability. The MK party distanced itself from Shivambu's visit, asserting he acted independently and without party approval. They reiterated their firm stance against gender-based violence and the exploitation of vulnerable communities by individuals leveraging faith for personal gain.

Shivambu, who joined the MK party from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) last year, publicly praised Bushiri's charitable work, claiming it positively impacts economic and social development in Malawi. His comments, made via X, highlighted the ongoing support he feels for the self-styled prophet, who has been accused of preying on desperate communities by selling purportedly miraculous products.

The tension arising from Shivambu's visit illustrates a broader concern about political figures' responsibility in navigating relationships with those facing serious legal accusations. As the MK party tries to chart its path following its emergence as a significant player in South African politics, the implications of Shivambu's actions may resonate throughout the political landscape.

Shivambu's remarks and his party's distance from his actions merely add to the complexity surrounding political accountability and public figures' ethical duties.