MALAWI: Bushiri Launches UK Legal Action Over Alleged Defamation

By Smile Hamilton Malawi

Malawian prophet Shepherd Bushiri has initiated legal proceedings in the United Kingdom against Mr. Peter Sambo over alleged defamatory statements made on social media, signaling a dramatic escalation from online exchanges to a formal court process.

In a statement, Bushiri confirmed that his lawyers in the UK have already served Mr. Sambo, with the matter now set to be heard before the High Court in London. “This is no longer a back-and-forth on social media. It is now a legal process, and it will run its full course,” he said.

Bushiri further indicated that his legal team has been instructed to pursue all lawful remedies available under UK law, stressing that issues of personal conduct are treated seriously within the British legal and regulatory system. He added that relevant authorities and institutions may be engaged where necessary in accordance with the law.

“Our position is clear. Mr. Sambo may be held liable for damages of up to £50,000 for the harm caused to me and my family,” Bushiri said, warning that all enforcement mechanisms would be pursued should any court judgment remain unsettled.

He dismissed any perception that geographical distance shields individuals from accountability, stating, “Let there be no confusion: being outside Malawi does not place anyone beyond accountability. The law is not limited by geography.”

The dispute has also extended to Malawi, where Bushiri says he has instructed his legal team to take action against Mr. Robert Chisambiro and his associates over continued alleged defamatory publications on platforms including MANNA NEWS ONLINE, Ndizaulura, and Nkhanga Zawona. He claimed those involved would be required to substantiate their allegations in court.

“You may wish to know they are on court bail already — but did not take the legal action and consequences seriously. They will,” Bushiri said, while also warning individuals operating anonymous or fake social media accounts that they would be identified and held accountable under the law.

Concluding his statement, Bushiri emphasized his determination to protect his reputation and interests, saying, “Reputation matters. Actions have consequences. And these matters will be dealt wi

th accordingly.”