JOHANNESBURG - Self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary, have no plans to set foot in South Africa, to face the law.
The couple is now appealing a Malawian court ruling, approving their extradition.
But South Africa's Justice and Constitutional Development Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi, accuses the Bushiris of yet another delaying tactic, which she opposes.
READ: Malawi Court in favour of 'prophet' Bushiri and wife's extradition to SA
The Bushiris have maintained their innocence, and say they have no intention of standing trial in South Africa. They cite a lack of faith in South Africa’s justice system.
Minister Kubayi says South Africa won’t back down.
"Every criminal will not want to face trial, will want to walk away. The justice system in the country had stood the test of time. He went there, he wanted bail and was given bail which regrettably he violated. So, it is his own doing that he actually undermined the judicial system of South Africa and he should come and face the music. If he has not done anything wrong why is he running away?," Kubayi explained.
The Bushiris face multiple charges — including rape, violating bail conditions, and breaching financial and immigration laws.
If their appeal fails, INTERPOL and the SAPS will then coordinate their return to South Africa.