By Jones Gadama
The South African government has welcomed the ruling by Malawi’s Chief Resident Magistrate Court in the extradition case of Shepherd and Mary Bushiri.
The ruling, delivered on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, paves the way for the Bushiris to be extradited to South Africa to face trial on multiple charges, including rape, violating bail conditions, and contraventions of various financial and immigration laws.
The Bushiris, who were granted bail pending trial in 2020, failed to comply with their bail conditions and fled the country under unknown circumstances.
They were later located in Malawi, prompting South Africa to submit an extradition request to the Malawian authorities.
The ruling has been hailed as a significant milestone in international legal cooperation, demonstrating the strength of both countries’ judicial frameworks and diplomatic engagements.
It reaffirms judicial independence, international cooperation, and public trust in the South African and Malawian legal institutions.
“This decision underscores the importance of accountability, transparency, and adherence to legal frameworks in both South Africa and Malawi,” said the South African government in a statement,adding that, “It also highlights the critical role of legal agreements and treaties in tackling transnational crime and ensuring that justice is served, regardless of borders.”
The case has drawn significant public and media attention, highlighting broader issues of corruption and accountability.
The South African government has expressed its commitment to strengthening legal and diplomatic partnerships to ensure that fugitives are brought to justice and that legal systems remain fair, credible, and effective.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, serving as South Africa’s Central Authority, will collaborate with the Malawi Central Authority and engage with INTERPOL, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and the South African Police Service (SAPS) to facilitate the extradition process.
Although the Bushiris have indicated their intention to appeal the ruling, the South African government has stated that it will oppose the appeal.
If the appeal proceeds, the Department will await the outcome before taking further steps.
If the couple chooses not to pursue the appeal, the Department will await formal notification from the Central Authority of the Republic of Malawi, after which INTERPOL and SAPS will coordinate the transfer arrangements and logistics, with the State covering all associated costs.
The extradition case has sparked widespread interest, with many calling for the Bushiris to be held accountable for their alleged crimes.
The ruling has been seen as a significant step towards ensuring that justice is served, and that those who commit crimes are brought to book, regardless of their nationality or whereabouts.
