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Shepherd Bushiri, Real Name Chipilaro Gama, Funding Mayibuye Africa Party?

Politics in South Africa is never short of drama, and the latest whispers carry the name of one of the continent’s most controversial prophets: Shepherd Bushiri, born Chipilaro Gama. It is alleged that the self-proclaimed prophet, who fled South Africa in 2020 amid fraud charges, has resurfaced in political conversations — this time as a potential backer of the Mayibuye Africa Party.

The story thickens with claims that Floyd Shivambu, former EFF deputy president, recently traveled to Malawi not just to “visit” Bushiri, but to discuss the possibility of launching a new political home — Mayibuye Africa Party — with Bushiri playing the role of financier. If true, this would mark one of the most bizarre marriages of religion, politics, and scandal in recent memory.

Bushiri’s name evokes strong reactions. To some, he remains a spiritual father who offered hope and prosperity teachings; to others, he is a fugitive who ran from accountability. If indeed he is channeling resources into South African politics from his Malawian base, it raises troubling questions: what kind of politics can be birthed from money tainted by unresolved allegations? Can a party backed by Bushiri truly claim to represent the interests of South Africans, or will it serve as a platform to launder reputations and influence?

For Floyd Shivambu, whose own political career has been marked by both brilliance and controversy, this alleged partnership would be a risky gamble. On one hand, Mayibuye Africa Party could provide him with a fresh start outside the shadows of Julius Malema and the EFF. On the other, his association with Bushiri could damage his credibility further, as South Africans remain wary of leaders entangled with scandal-prone figures.

South Africa deserves political movements born out of integrity, accountability, and vision — not out of whispered deals in Malawi or the coffers of fugitive prophets. Until clear answers emerge, the alleged Bushiri-Mayibuye connection remains an uncomfortable reminder of how easily money, power, and desperation can distort our political landscape.

The nation must ask: do we want our future dictated by prophets in hiding and politicians seeking quick comebacks, or by leaders with genuine courage to face the people and the truth?

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