Gospel music icon Rebecca Malope has spoken out against claims that she visited controversial Malawian pastor Shepherd Bushiri during the Easter period. The allegations gained traction after images and videos circulated online, suggesting she attended a service at Bushiri’s church following the Easter Friday visit by MK Party secretary-general Floyd Shivambu, which itself sparked political controversy.
Firm Denial of Church Visit
In a firm response, Malope denied any involvement with Bushiri’s church and labelled the assumptions as “false and hurtful.” Speaking to TshisaLIVE, the singer emphasized that she has never set foot in Bushiri’s church, whether in South Africa or Malawi.
Rebecca Malope
Rebecca Malope
“I don’t even know what it looks like. He’s invited me so many times but I always have my own excuse because I know where I stand with God,” she explained.
Clarifying the Malawi Encounter
Malope addressed the only known public interaction she’s had with Bushiri, which occurred two years ago during a concert in Malawi. She said the event had no religious affiliation and was organized by a promoter, not by Bushiri or his church.
“When he entered, I heard the crowd make a lot of noise and they said it’s Bushiri. I had heard that he’s a big fan, so when I was on stage, I saw him sitting in front and I thanked him for his support. I was even amazed that he was there,” she recalled.
Online Backlash and Personal Impact
The gospel legend revealed that the online speculation has led to a wave of harsh criticism and unwarranted insults, something that has affected her deeply.
“I believe in the true living God. People must stop insulting me now. I don’t even know Bushiri. He’s invited me many times. If it was for money for what I do, I would have been to his churches many times,” she said.
Rebecca Malope
Standing Firm in Faith
Despite the noise, Malope remains grounded in her faith. “I feel so hurt that they can go to an extent of insulting me. I don’t care about people lying, but they must just not insult me,” she concluded.
Rebecca Malope continues to maintain her legacy with grace and integrity, unshaken by baseless claims.