Malawi court rules against Bushiri arrest, sets extradition hearing date

A Malawi court has refused to allow the arrest of fugitive religious leader Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary.

Magistrate Viva Nyimba said the couple would be expected in court on 8 March 2021, for a formal hearing regarding their extradition to South Africa where they face multiple charges of fraud and money laundering up to R102million.. They had been granted bail in that country to but dramatically escaped in November 2020 claiming their lives were in danger.

South Africa issued a request for extradition which the Malawian government acceded to.

On 8 February 2021, the Malawi government will formally file its papers for extradition. On 16 February 2021, the defence counsel for the Bushiris will file a response. The formal hearing will then be held from 8 March 2021.

The government of Malawi says it expects the matter to be concluded in March.

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