Africa-Press – Malawi. The High Court in Lilongwe has set July 17, 2025 as the date for the continuation of the extradition case involving Prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary, who are wanted in South Africa on charges of fraud, money laundering and rape.
Presiding Judge Mzonde Mvula made the ruling in chambers Thursday, following the State’s application to address queries raised earlier by the defence team.
The matter, which has seen numerous delays since it was first brought before the courts in 2020, has now entered what parties view as a critical phase.
Dzikondianthu MalundaState lawyer Dzikondianthu Malunda confirmed that the hearing was convened to allow the court to rule on submissions the State intends to file in response to the defence’s outstanding concerns.
“The court has given us 21 days to file our submissions addressing the issues raised by the defence. After that, the defence will have seven days to respond,” Malunda said.
He added that when the court reconvenes on July 17, it will listen to arguments from both parties before setting a date for judgement on whether the Bushiris should be extradited to South Africa.
The defence team was not available for comment following the chamber session.
The Bushiris fled South Africa in November 2020 while on bail, claiming they feared for their lives.
South African authorities have since sought their return to face trial, resulting in a protracted legal battle in Malawi.
In previous proceedings, the court fined the South African Government for delays in providing necessary documents and evidence while the defence has repeatedly questioned the authenticity and admissibility of the extradition request.
In 2024, the Chief Resident Magistrate’s Court ordered the State to complete its submissions within 60 days, a timeline that was later disrupted by procedural objections and further delays.
The case was then elevated to the High Court for review and guidance.
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