Malawi High Court Explains Why It Blocked Shepherd Bushiri’s Extradition To South Africa

Malawi’s High Court has explained why it overturned the extradition order against controversial preacher Shepherd Bushiri and his wife, Mary, in a detailed 175-page judgment. The ruling, which sets out legal and procedural concerns surrounding the process, is a setback for South African authorities seeking to bring the couple back to face fraud, money laundering and theft charges.

The judgment addresses the couple’s argument that they were not given an opportunity to be heard before the extradition order was issued in March 2025. Their lawyer, Wapona Kita, said the court had now provided its full reasons for setting aside the order.

Why Malawi’s High Court Overturned The Bushiris’ Extradition Order

Kita said the judgment followed the court’s consideration of the couple’s submissions and grounds for review. He explained that the existing order could no longer be used to extradite them.

“The only way forward now is through an appeal by the State,” Kita said.

The ruling does not resolve the criminal charges the couple face in South Africa. Instead, it concerns the legality of the extradition process and the order that had been issued.

Bushiri also welcomed the judgment, saying the couple had challenged the evidence supporting their extradition, including the use of anonymous witnesses and material they considered hearsay.

Shepherd Bushiri Responds As South African Legal Battle Continues

The preacher also raised allegations of police misconduct and concerns about the couple’s safety in South Africa. These remain allegations made by Bushiri and should not be treated as established findings of the court.

In a statement celebrating the ruling, he said:

“We thank God for answering our prayers and thank everyone who stood with us throughout this journey. We have trusted God through it all, and today we give Him the glory. There is a God in heaven!”

Bushiri and Mary left South Africa for Malawi in November 2020 while on bail. They face allegations involving fraud, money laundering and theft valued at more than R102 million.

The latest judgment means the couple cannot be extradited under the quashed order. Their legal position could change if South African authorities pursue a successful appeal.

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