prophet Shepherd Bushiri Has launched a scathing attack on South Africa special investigation unit (SIU) accused the agency of spreading lies and misleading the South African public by claiming that it obtained immigration documents fraudulently.
In a strongly worded statement, Bushiri dismissed the SIU's findings as “irrational” and insisted that his immigration status to South Africa was obtained legally through official diplomatic channels – not through manipulation of the country's immigration system, as investigators allege.
Bushiri disputes SIU findings
The confrontation follows a recent SIU briefing in which investigators claimed that Bushiri obtained a permanent residence permit irregularly, alleging that officials home department Legal procedures were bypassed to provide him with immigration documents.
According to the SIU, Bushiri's case was part of a wider corruption scheme inside Home Affairs where immigration permits, visas and even citizenship documents were allegedly issued improperly.
Investigators also suggested that the preacher used his influence and religious networks to obtain favorable treatment from the authorities.
But Bushiri has vehemently rejected those allegations.
Bushiri said, “Let the irrational SIU of South Africa be reminded of this simple, undeniable truth: I did not apply for my immigration status in South Africa.”
He argued that his application was submitted through the South African Embassy in Malawi long before he relocated permanently to South Africa.
legitimate investment claims
Bushiri said his immigration status was validly granted under South African laws that allow permanent residence to foreign nationals who have made significant investments in the country.
According to him, they have already invested more than R90 million in South Africa, which is well above the legal limit of R10 million required for such a permit.
“It was not a favor. It was not an exception. It was the law,” he said.
Bushiri further asserted that once the permits were approved, the embassy contacted him to collect them, arguing that he followed official procedures without seeking assistance from any Home Affairs official.
Tension increases due to death of immigration officer
In his reaction, Bushiri also accused the SIU of harassing an immigration officer who he claims was unfairly targeted because he visited her church.
The preacher alleged that the officer was arrested and dismissed from his job on suspicion that he had helped facilitate Bushiri's permits, while the applications were allegedly processed through diplomatic channels.
Bushiri said the officer died recently after enduring humiliation and professional ruin.
“The most painful and unforgivable thing is that even before his body was laid to rest, a statement was issued claiming that he had admitted to issuing us the permit illegally,” Bushiri said.
“They spoke for him only when they were convinced that he could no longer speak for himself.”
Question on timing of investigation
Bushiri also questioned the timing of the SIU's new charges, pointing out that he and his wife were arrested in South Africa six years ago on similar charges.
He argued that if officials are now claiming to have uncovered new evidence about immigration irregularities, it casts doubt on the credibility of the investigation.
“Do you arrest people to investigate, or investigate to arrest?” Bushiri asked.
“What's happening here is not justice. This is not due process. This is witchcraft.”
long-running legal battle
Bushiri and his wife, mary bushiriLeft South Africa in 2020 while on bail facing charges including fraud and money laundering.
South African authorities are attempting to extradite him from Malawi, while an investigation into alleged corruption within Home Affairs continues.
The SIU says Bushiri benefited from an extensive network of officials who allegedly issued immigration documents irregularly.
But Bushiri's latest response indicates that the controversy is far from over, with the preacher now openly accusing South African investigators of making fabricated claims and running a campaign of harassment against him.
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