South African Politician Sacked Over Visit to Fugitive Pastor

The controversy surrounding Floyd Shivambu's visit to Shepherd Bushiri's church highlights the scrutiny politicians face when associating with figures accused of wrongdoing, and raises questions about judgment and accountability in public office.

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A top Politician in one of South Africa’s biggest political parties has been sacked after visiting a controversial Malawian pastor who is currently a fugitive. Floyd Shivambu has been removed as secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, barely six months into the job, after attending an Easter service at Shepherd Bushiri’s church in April.

The MK party said in a press conference that Mr. Shivambu’s removal came after his actions “were found to be against the spirit and prescripts of the MK party’s constitution”. “The president and national officials were left with no other option but to act swiftly,” said MK national chair Nathi Nhleko. He added that the trip “was not an officially sanctioned programme of the organisation”.

However, Mr. Shivambu remains a member of the party and will instead represent MK in the National Assembly. Reacting to news of his demotion, Mr. Shivambu said he “fully accepts” the decision taken by the party and looked forward to taking up his new role in parliament.

Mr. Bushiri, the self-proclaimed pastor, is accused of preying on poor people who were desperate to improve their lives by selling merchandise, including “miracle oil”. He claims to have cured people of HIV, made the blind see, changed the fortunes of the impoverished, and, on at least one occasion, walked on air. Mr. Bushiri has been charged with rape and fraud, and denies any wrongdoing.

The controversy surrounding Mr. Shivambu’s visit to Mr. Bushiri’s church sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the politician’s judgment. Mr. Shivambu had previously reposted footage shared on X by Mr. Bushiri, praising the self-proclaimed pastor for his “good work” and “for hosting us”.

The controversy surrounding Floyd Shivambu’s visit to Shepherd Bushiri’s church highlights the scrutiny politicians face when associating with figures accused of wrongdoing, and raises questions about judgment and accountability in public office.

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