Bushiri will get fair trial, wait and see

There is never a dull moment in South Africa. Last month, citizens were glued to their televisions watching the state capture commission.

The former Bosasa COO, Angelo Agrizzi, gave us the low down on how Bosasa captured the state in order to get lucrative tenders from government. This month, our attention has been shifted from the state capture to something else.

The charismatic and controversial pastor, Sheperd Bushiri, has captured our imagination.

Bushiri, together with his wife, have been apprehended for fraud and money laundering allegations. Interestingly, Bushiri’s die-hard supporters have threatened not to vote in the upcoming elections if their “Papa” and “Mama”, as they are affectionately called, are not released from prison.

There are media reports that Bushiri has been banned in certain African countries such as Botswana. These countries don’t agree with his practices, particularly the prosperity practice. Yet in SA he is tolerated. Since the ECG founder and lead pastor has been jailed, stories of how he duped believers for financial gain are tumbling out.

The jailing of Bushiri has attracted the attention of the nation and media. It would be advisable for the citizens not to interfere with the case so that the preacher can get a fair treatment. Police should also be given space to do their job without fear or favour. Let justice take its course.

Thabile Mange, Joburg