Bushiri Private Jet Source Bing.com
Prophet Shepherd Bushiri, a Malawian preacher and leader of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) church, has been in the limelight for quite some time now. One of the reasons for this is his flashy lifestyle, which includes owning a private jet. However, the source of the funds used to purchase the jet has been a subject of controversy.
The Purchase of the Private Jet
Shepherd Bushiri Private Jet Source Bing.com
In 2015, Prophet Bushiri acquired a Gulfstream III private jet, which was estimated to cost around $37 million. According to him, the money was raised through donations from his followers and proceeds from his businesses. He justified the purchase, saying that the jet was necessary for his ministry as it enabled him to reach his followers across the globe with ease.
The Controversy Surrounding the Purchase
Shepherd Bushiri Controversy Source Bing.com
However, the purchase of the private jet raised eyebrows, especially among his critics. They questioned the source of the funds used to buy the jet, arguing that it was unlikely that his followers could raise such a huge amount. Some also questioned his lavish lifestyle, which included owning several expensive cars and mansions in different countries.
The Arrest of Prophet Bushiri and His Wife
Shepherd Bushiri Arrest Source Bing.com
In October 2020, Prophet Bushiri and his wife were arrested in South Africa on charges of fraud and money laundering. They were accused of defrauding their followers of millions of dollars through their investment company, Shepherd Bushiri Investments (SBI). The couple denied the charges and fled to Malawi, where they were granted asylum.
The Seizure of the Private Jet
Bushiri Private Jet Seized Source Bing.com
In November 2020, the South African government seized Prophet Bushiri’s private jet, along with several other assets, as part of their efforts to recover the money he allegedly defrauded from his followers. The jet was later sold at an auction for $4 million.
The Aftermath of the Controversy
Shepherd Bushiri Aftermath Source Bing.com
The controversy surrounding Prophet Bushiri’s private jet has had far-reaching consequences. It has damaged his reputation and that of his church, which has lost many of its members. It has also led to calls for more transparency in the finances of religious organizations and for stricter regulation of their activities.
Conclusion
Prophet Shepherd Bushiri’s private jet was a symbol of his success and influence in the religious world. However, its purchase and subsequent seizure have raised questions about the source of his wealth and the legitimacy of his ministry. The controversy has also highlighted the need for greater accountability and transparency in the operations of religious organizations.