MK Party distances itself from Shivambu’s visit to Bushiri
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party has officially distanced itself from it’s Secretary General Floyd Shivambu following his controversial visit to Malawi, where he was publicly seen with self-proclaimed prophet and wanted fugitive, Shepherd Bushiri.
Shivambu attended an Easter service at Bushiri’s church on Friday.
Bushiri and his wife, Mary, are currently wanted in South Africa and are attempting to avoid extradition after a Malawian court ruled in favor of returning them to face trial.
The couple fled the country in 2020 while out on bail, violating their bail conditions. They face multiple serious charges, including fraud, money laundering, rape, and breaching immigration laws.
Authorities allege that the pair defrauded investors of more than R100 million through fake investment schemes and contravened various financial and aviation regulations.
In response to growing criticism, the MK Party clarified that Shivambu’s visit was not authorized or supported by the party and emphasized that he undertook the trip in his personal capacity, without informing or seeking approval from party leadership.
“We remain firmly opposed to any association with individuals who are fugitives from justice. Our values are rooted in integrity, justice, and accountability, and we reject any actions that compromise the reputation and ethical standing of our movement,” said Nhlamulo Ndhlela.
Despite the controversy, Shivambu took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend Bushiri, describing his work in uplifting people across economic, educational, social, and spiritual spheres as “unparalleled.”
Thank you my brother, Prophet Bushiri for hosting us and for the kind words. The government scale amount of work you do to economically, educationally, socially and spiritually uplift our people is unparalleled now and in history.
— Floyd Shivambu (@FloydShivambu) April 19, 2025
I know that the leadership and people of Malawi… https://t.co/A7x2SSHQWF
The MK Party reiterated its firm stance against aligning with individuals evading justice.
“The MK Party strongly condemns all forms of gender-based violence and the exploitation of vulnerable communities, especially innocent Christian believers, by individuals who manipulate faith for personal enrichment or to evade justice.”
“Our Party stands with the victims of such exploitation and will never align itself with those who use religion as a shield to defraud, abuse, or mislead the public.”
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi also condemned Shivambu’s actions, calling his interaction with Bushiri a serious affront to the integrity of South Africa’s justice system.
“Mr. Shivambu’s actions erode public trust in the justice system and embolden those who believe they can escape accountability,” said Minister Kubayi.
“No one, regardless of status or position, is above the law. Political leaders have a responsibility to uphold the rule of law, not fraternise with fugitives.”
Meanwhile, the Bushiris have contested the court’s extradition ruling, claiming that South Africa’s request was procedurally flawed.
Their legal team argues that the affidavit submitted lacked the required legal authentication under Malawian law and therefore should not be considered valid evidence.
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