A heated controversy has erupted between South African political activist Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi and Malawian preacher and businessman Prophet Shepherd Bushiri following a recent public lecture at the University of Malawi.
During the lecture—organized by Malawi’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Vitumbiko Mumba—Ndlozi addressed issues of corruption and exploitation in Africa, particularly targeting religious leaders who he accused of “stealing from the poor in the name of God.” The event, themed “People over Politics: A Bold, Righteous and Inextinguishable Idea,” aimed to challenge conventional political leadership and governance.
However, it was Ndlozi’s rhetorical question, “Why am I rich?”—interpreted by many as a jab at Bushiri—that sparked a furious response from the Malawian preacher.
In a strongly-worded statement, Bushiri lashed out at Ndlozi, accusing him of harboring jealousy and xenophobic tendencies. “Seriously, why? How did I even come into your political lecture?” Bushiri fired back. “Can’t these jealous, poorly rated politicians like him leave me alone? Your question about my wealth is nonsensical.”
Bushiri, who has long faced scrutiny both in South Africa and Malawi over his wealth and church empire, defended his financial status by highlighting his contributions to Malawi’s economy. “Malawians know why I’m rich—I help the poor and create jobs,” he said. “Just last year, I created over 5,000 jobs through my farms and the Goshen City project.”
He also questioned Ndlozi’s credibility, referring to his fallout with fellow South African political figure Julius Malema. “Is this the reason you betrayed your brother Julius Malema? Next time, focus on politics,” Bushiri remarked.
The exchange has since drawn mixed reactions across social media, with some defending Bushiri’s philanthropic claims, while others back Ndlozi’s calls for accountability among both political and religious leaders in Africa.
The controversy underscores deeper tensions between political and religious leadership on the continent, especially on matters of wealth, influence, and the fight against corruption.