Former EFF Deputy President Faces Backlash Over Easter Visit
Nyiko Floyd Shivambu, once a senior figure in South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and now a member of Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe party, is facing heavy criticism online following a highly publicized Easter weekend visit to controversial Malawian preacher Shepherd Bushiri, also known as “Major 1.”
Bushiri Celebrates Visit on Social Media
Bushiri, who remains a fugitive from South African justice, posted a glowing message on social media celebrating Shivambu’s visit.
“Thrilled to have met Mr. Floyd Shivambu! His philosophy of black people supporting each other resonated deeply,” Bushiri wrote. “Kudos for championing pragmatic ideologies that can propel Africa forward.”
In a tone blending praise and humor, Bushiri added,
“After our chat, he even stopped by our church for a prayer session. I guess you could say he wanted to ‘pray away’ any political stress or ensure his prayers were ‘politically correct.’ Either way, his visit was a blessing.”
Shivambu Responds With Praise
Shivambu responded with equal warmth, thanking Bushiri and praising his efforts across the continent:
“Thank you my brother, Prophet Bushiri, for hosting us and for the kind words. The government scale amount of work you do to economically, educationally, socially and spiritually uplift our people is unparalleled now and in history.”
Shivambu went on to quote scripture and praised Bushiri’s impact in Malawi, stating,
“The Book says, ‘Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender’. God Bless!”
Public Outrage Over Ties to Wanted Fugitive
South Africans quickly took to social media, expressing dismay and anger over Shivambu’s association with Bushiri, who is currently wanted in South Africa on a litany of serious charges. Critics say the visit signals a disregard for the rule of law and lends credibility to a man many believe should be held accountable.
Bushiri’s Legal Troubles Still Loom Large
Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary fled South Africa in 2020 while out on bail, violating their bail conditions. In March 2025, a Malawian court ruled in favor of extraditing the couple to South Africa to face multiple charges, including:
- Rape (against Shepherd Bushiri)
- Fraud
- Money Laundering
- Violation of Bail Conditions
- Forgery
- Contraventions of several South African laws, including the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, the Banking Act, the Civil Aviation Act, and the Immigration Act.
A Political Misstep or a Pan-African Gesture?
While some supporters defend Shivambu’s visit as an act of Pan-African solidarity, critics argue that associating with a fugitive preacher undermines the credibility of political leaders and sends the wrong message about accountability and justice.
As the social media storm continues, Shivambu has yet to issue a clarifying statement beyond his initial post — leaving many wondering if this Easter weekend visit may have long-term political consequences.