Shepherd Bushiri, the founder of the Jesus Nation Church, has claimed his South African congregation has grown to over two million members since his 2020 departure from the country. He stated that the church has multiplied fivefold despite his absence, with branches remaining active in major cities.
Bushiri made these assertions from Malawi, where he resides after a ruling from the Malawi High Court blocked his extradition to South Africa. Justice Mzonde Mvula cited procedural flaws in the extradition process and concerns for Bushiri's safety as reasons for the decision. The religious leader and his wife, Mary, face charges of fraud and money laundering in South Africa.
The church, previously named the Enlightened Christian Gathering, continues to draw worshippers, with many traveling from South Africa to attend services in Malawi. Bushiri also commented on a recent visit from politician Floyd Shivambu, describing it as a social and spiritual encounter rather than a political endorsement.
Bushiri made these assertions from Malawi, where he resides after a ruling from the Malawi High Court blocked his extradition to South Africa. Justice Mzonde Mvula cited procedural flaws in the extradition process and concerns for Bushiri's safety as reasons for the decision. The religious leader and his wife, Mary, face charges of fraud and money laundering in South Africa.
The church, previously named the Enlightened Christian Gathering, continues to draw worshippers, with many traveling from South Africa to attend services in Malawi. Bushiri also commented on a recent visit from politician Floyd Shivambu, describing it as a social and spiritual encounter rather than a political endorsement.
