Shepherd Bushiri supports Timothy Omotoso after acquittal, refuses to return to SA

Shepherd Bushiri supports Timothy Omotoso after acquittal, refuses to return to SA! Self-proclaimed Malawian prophet Shepherd “Papa” Bushiri has voiced his support for Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso following his acquittal in a high-profile case. At the same time, Bushiri reaffirmed his decision not to return to South Africa, where he faces fraud and money laundering charges.

Omotoso Acquitted After Eight-Year Trial

The High Court in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, ruled in favor of Omotoso, 63, and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani, 41, and Zikiswa Sitho, 33, after an extensive eight-year trial.

Judge Irma Schoeman found that the State failed to prove the charges against Omotoso beyond a reasonable doubt.

Although some aspects of the complainants’ testimonies were deemed credible, the judge ruled that the overall evidence was insufficient for a conviction.

Additionally, the judge criticized the prosecution, highlighting weak cross-examination and a failure to adequately present their case.

Bushiri Reacts to Omotoso’s Acquittal

Following Omotoso’s legal victory, Bushiri took to social media to express his support and outrage.

“After eight long, agonizing years—years that felt like an endless night—Timothy Omotoso, a Nigerian-born televangelist, has been declared innocent,” Bushiri wrote on Facebook.

He went on to emphasize the magnitude of the case, noting that Omotoso had faced 32 charges, including rape, sexual assault, money laundering, human trafficking, and racketeering.

“Imagine: thirty-two!” he exclaimed, implying that the charges were excessive and unjustified.

Bushiri also criticized the State’s handling of the case, particularly Omotoso’s prolonged detention and denial of bail throughout the trial.

“For eight years, he woke up in a cold cell, staring at the same walls, the same despair, wondering if the world had forgotten him,” Bushiri lamented.

Comparing His Own Experience

Drawing parallels between his situation and Omotoso’s, Bushiri claimed that authorities were determined to break him, just as they allegedly tried to do with Omotoso.

“They wanted me locked away, forgotten, my name dragged through the mud until there was nothing left of me but a ghost,” Bushiri said.

Bushiri fled South Africa in 2020 while facing charges of fraud and money laundering. He has since remained in Malawi, resisting extradition efforts by South African authorities.

Extradition Battle Continues

Bushiri’s legal troubles remain unresolved, with South Africa pushing for his extradition.

Last month, a Malawian court ordered the extradition of Bushiri and his wife, Mary, to South Africa. They are expected to face multiple charges, including:

• Fraud and money laundering

• Bail violations

• Immigration violations

• Rape allegations

However, Bushiri disputed these charges, claiming that several had already been dismissed by Malawian courts.

“Last month, a court in Malawi threw out ten charges against me—fraud, money laundering, racketeering—which South Africa wants me to answer. I am surprised no one is talking about this.”

Bushiri also questioned the timing of additional charges, particularly rape allegations, which he claims were only brought forward after he sought refuge in Malawi.

Furthermore, he accused South African law enforcement of playing a role in his daughter’s death, alleging that she was denied medical treatment before passing away.

“What wrong did she do, and what wrong did my child do to be denied access to the hospital by South African law enforcement until she lost her life?”

Warning to Omotoso: “Leave While You Still Can”

Bushiri ended his message with a strong warning to Omotoso, advising him to flee South Africa immediately before facing further legal troubles or deportation.

“To you, my brother Omotoso, I understand you will be deported immediately. Please, with tears in my eyes, leave. Leave while you still can. If there is a window you can use to leave quickly before they deport you, do so.”

His words indicate distrust in South Africa’s legal system, as he fears Omotoso may still be targeted despite being acquitted.

What’s Next?

While Omotoso has been cleared of all charges, his future in South Africa remains uncertain. If deported, he may face restrictions on returning to the country.

Meanwhile, Bushiri’s fight against extradition continues. His case has gained significant attention, with many watching to see whether South African authorities will succeed in bringing him back to face justice.

For now, both men remain controversial figures, with their legal battles exposing deep divisions over justice, faith, and law enforcement in South Africa.