Shepherd Bushiri: What to know before the extradition ruling
Shepherd Bushiri
The long-running extradition case of controversial preacher Shepherd Bushiri is approaching a pivotal moment as Malawi’s High Court prepares to deliver a final verdict in September 2025. Accused of multimillion-rand fraud, theft, and money laundering in South Africa, Bushiri and his wife, Mary, have fought for nearly five years to avoid facing trial in Pretoria.
As public attention intensifies, here’s a breakdown of the key legal developments in the case that has tested regional justice cooperation under the SADC extradition framework.
Shepherd Bushiri Fled South Africa in 2020 While on Bail for Fraud Charges
In November 2020, Shepherd and Mary Bushiri skipped bail and fled to Malawi just days after being released by a South African court on charges of defrauding investors of over R100 million. Their escape triggered diplomatic and legal action, as South Africa filed an urgent extradition request under the SADC Protocol and Extradition Act.
Malawi confirmed receipt of the request in early 2021, setting the legal machinery in motion.
Extradition Hearings Stalled for Over a Year Due to Legal Challenges
Throughout 2021 and 2022, proceedings stalled as the Bushiris’ legal team raised technical objections over documentation and due process. They argued that South Africa had failed to follow proper procedure, and that the accused faced political persecution. These delays kept the matter tied up in Malawi’s lower courts, with no concrete ruling for over a year.
April 2023: Magistrate’s Court Resumes Hearings
In April 2023, the Chief Resident Magistrate’s Court resumed formal hearings on the extradition. South African prosecutors submitted sworn affidavits, witness lists, and court documents outlining the criminal charges. The Bushiris countered by insisting the evidence was flawed and based on “hearsay.”
March 2024: Magistrate Authorizes Bushiris’ Extradition
In a major legal blow to the Bushiris, the Magistrate’s Court in March 2024 ruled in favor of South Africa. The judge concluded that a prima facie case existed and that the couple should be extradited to stand trial in Gauteng.
However, the ruling did not result in an immediate handover. The Bushiris swiftly filed a review application with the Malawi High Court.
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April 2024 to July 2025: Bushiris Mount Final Legal Challenge
Between April 2024 and July 2025, the High Court reviewed the Bushiris’ appeal, focusing on their claims that:
- The extradition process was procedurally unfair
- Evidence presented was inadmissible or insufficient
- They were not allowed to cross-examine witnesses
The court heard the matter on July 17, 2025, but reserved judgment, requesting additional submissions from both legal teams.
Final Verdict Expected in September 2025
The High Court of Malawi is expected to hand down its final ruling in September 2025. This decision will determine whether the Bushiris are handed over to South African authorities to face trial or remain in Malawi under legal protection.
If the court rules against them, the couple could be extradited within weeks. If the appeal is upheld, South Africa may need to restart the process or escalate the matter to the Malawi Supreme Court.
Regional Implications and What Comes Next
The Bushiri case has exposed the complexities of cross-border justice in Southern Africa, especially in politically sensitive and high-profile cases. It has tested the strength of bilateral legal cooperation and raised concerns over due process, judicial independence, and public trust in law enforcement.
Observers now wait for the September ruling, which could define the future of one of the region’s most controversial figures, and set a precedent for extradition battles in SADC.
