UMkhonto weSizwe Party leader, Mr Floyd Shivambu in Malawi, where he was seen in the company of Shepherd Bushiri photo supplied
The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development has noted with grave concern the recent visit by uMkhonto weSizwe Party leader, Mr Floyd Shivambu, to Malawi, where he was seen in the company of Shepherd Bushiri, a fugitive who fled South Africa in 2020 while facing serious charges, including rape and fraud.
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party is a political party represented in the Parliament of South Africa.
The Bushiris’ unlawful departure from South Africa constituted a direct violation of their bail conditions and prompted an official extradition request to the Malawian government.
In March 2025, a Malawian court ruled in favour of extraditing the couple to South Africa to face justice.
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has strongly condemned Mr Shivambu’s conduct, describing his association with Mr Bushiri as a blatant act of disrespect toward South Africa’s legal system.
The Minister cautioned that such behaviour by a political leader not only undermines the credibility of the judiciary but also diminishes the gravity of the charges against Mr Bushiri, sending a dangerous message to the public and to victims of crime.
“Mr Shivambu’s actions erode public trust in the justice system and embolden those who believe they can escape accountability,” said Minister Kubayi.
“No one, regardless of status or position, is above the law. Political leaders have a responsibility to uphold the rule of law, not fraternise with fugitives.”
The Minister urges all public representatives to work in partnership with law enforcement authorities to safeguard the country from those who violate the law.
As a party represented in the Parliament of South Africa, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party has a duty to uphold justice and respect the integrity of South Africa’s legal processes.