A senior figure in one of South Africa’s leading political parties is under fire after attending a church service led by a fugitive preacher accused of rape and fraud.
Floyd Shivambu, secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, shared footage of himself at an Easter service hosted by Shepherd Bushiri, a self-proclaimed prophet who fled South Africa after being charged in 2020.
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Bushiri, originally from Malawi, was once among the most prominent preachers in southern Africa. He left South Africa under unclear circumstances after being granted bail and has been fighting extradition ever since. A recent court ruling in Malawi favored extradition, but Bushiri and his wife, who also faces fraud charges, have appealed the decision.
Bushiri amassed significant wealth through his churches across Africa and is accused of exploiting vulnerable followers by selling items like “miracle oil.” He has made extraordinary claims, including curing HIV, restoring sight to the blind, and even walking on air. Both he and his wife deny any wrongdoing.
South Africa’s Minister of Justice criticized Shivambu’s visit, calling it a disrespectful act toward the country’s justice system. The minister warned that such actions undermine efforts to hold people accountable.
The MK party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, issued a statement distancing itself from Shivambu’s visit, emphasizing that he acted independently and without the party’s approval. The party reiterated its opposition to gender-based violence and the exploitation of faith for personal gain.
Despite the controversy, Shivambu praised Bushiri online, describing his work as unmatched in uplifting communities socially, spiritually, and economically. He thanked Bushiri for his hospitality and shared footage of himself being introduced to a cheering congregation.
Shivambu joined the MK party in August last year after leaving the Economic Freedom Fighters and quickly rose to the position of secretary-general. The MK party gained significant ground in the last elections, contributing to the ruling party’s loss of its long-held majority.
