Former Sundowns midfielder Tiyani Mabunda wants to follow in the footsteps of his controversial spiritual guide, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri, also known as Major 1.
“When I grow up, I want to be like my father, Shepherd Bushiri,” Mabunda said, despite the storm of scandals surrounding the prophet.
Appointed as a resident pastor in Pretoria, Mabunda is on a mission to breathe life back into the church’s congregation, once Bushiri’s pride and joy.
The footballer-turned-preacher sings Bushiri’s praises, claiming a divine connection through the prophet’s teachings.
“I hear the voice of God loud and clear through him,” Mabunda said, TimesLive reported.
Mabunda, who retired in 2021, credits Bushiri’s prayers with restoring his once-stagnant football career.
Despite whispers of being “brainwashed,” Mabunda remains faithful.
“Leave me to follow my prophet in peace,” he insists.
Bushiri, who is from Malawi, gained popularity online after releasing a video of himself “walking on air” – but his former manager revealed the act was staged.
Bushiri’s investment company, Shepherd Bushiri Investments, has been charged in several cases of fraud and money laundering, and a number of its assets have been seized by police after a Ponzi scheme it ran collapsed and pensioners were defrauded.
On March 21, 2021, South African Police charged Shepherd Bushiri with 16 counts of rape connected to eight different victims.
These are only a couple of many controversial incidents involving Bushiri.
He and his wife were arrested in Malawi in 2020 and released on bail. The case of their extradition to South Africa is ongoing.
Compiled by staff writer
Pictured above: Tiyani Mabunda.
Image source: X
