Controversy Surrounding Floyd Shivambu’s Attendance: Floyd Shivambu, the secretary-general of the UMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party), has praised Prophet Shepherd Bushiri for his notable efforts in enhancing the social, economic, and spiritual welfare of communities. This follows recent criticism directed at Bushiri from another South African politician during a public event in Zomba.
Shivambu took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his appreciation: “Thank you, my brother, Prophet Bushiri, for your hospitality and kind remarks. The extensive work you undertake to uplift our people economically, educationally, socially, and spiritually is unmatched—both in the present and historically.”
He also highlighted the profound gratitude expressed by Malawi’s leadership and citizens for the initiatives initiated by Bushiri.
“I am aware that both the leadership and the people of Malawi value and hold in high regard the numerous impactful programs you implement on the ground. Keep up the excellent work.”
During the church service, Bushiri warmly recognized Shivambu, referring to him as “one of the remarkable individuals I know who is passionate about Africa and advocates for African matters.”
Bushiri commended Shivambu’s commitment to empowering Africans, stating: “Individuals like Floyd are dedicated to supporting fellow Africans and uplifting those who are thriving. I am grateful to have someone like him in South Africa and on our continent.”
Later, Bushiri took to social media (Facebook) to commend Shivambu’s Pan-African principles: “I was delighted to meet Mr. Floyd Shivambu! His belief in black individuals supporting one another struck a chord with me.
“Regrettably, there are those who propagate jealousy and negativity—branding successful black individuals as ‘corrupt’ and in need of scrutiny, while lauding white individuals as ‘investors.’ That is not Pan-Africanism; it is jealousy.”
In a lighter vein, Bushiri shared a moment from Shivambu’s visit: “He even attended our church for a prayer session. One might say he aimed to ‘pray away’ any political tension—or ensure his prayers were ‘politically correct.’”
Bushiri underscored that Shivambu’s visit was a blessing, and the church valued his quest for divine guidance.
The Controversy
On April 12, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, a former member of the EFF and a radio host, delivered a critical address at the University of Malawi.
With the theme “People Over Politics,” Ndlozi examined the ethics of religious leaders accumulating wealth amidst serious allegations, explicitly stating: “There is someone in this country who is wanted in South Africa.” Although he did not mention Bushiri by name, it was quickly inferred by the audience and the public that he was alluding to the prophet, who fled South Africa in 2020 while on bail for fraud and money laundering charges.
Ndlozi’s message was clear: no person, whether a pastor or a politician, should enrich themselves at the expense of the impoverished.
