Miss South Africa controversy: Chidimma Adetshina's withdrawal and its ripple effects

The controversy began when questions arose about her true parentage and citizenship status, prompting the Department of Home Affairs to step in.

On August 5, 2024, the Miss South Africa organisers, with written consent from Adetshina and her mother, requested the Department of Home Affairs to verify Adetshina’s citizenship. The Department responded with a thorough investigation, involving archival research, hospital visits, and site inspections to uncover the truth.

Preliminary findings suggested that fraud and identity theft might have been involved in the registration of Adetshina’s birth. A statement from the Department noted, "There are prima facie reasons to believe that fraud and identity theft may have been committed. Adetshina could not have participated in these actions as she was an infant in 2001 when the alleged activities took place. An innocent South African mother, whose identity may have been stolen, suffered as a result because she could not register her child."

The investigation is expanding to identify any officials who may have been complicit in the fraudulent scheme, with legal advice being sought on the implications for Adetshina's citizenship status, the Department further stated.

Adetshina withdraws from Miss South Africa

While Adetshina did not directly address the Department's findings, she took to Instagram to announce her withdrawal from the competition. "Being part of the Miss South Africa 2024 competition has been an amazing journey. However, after much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw for the safety and wellbeing of my family and I," she shared, expressing her gratitude for the support of the Miss South Africa Organisation.

Public apologies and broader consequences

In the wake of the controversy, several public figures who had previously supported Adetshina issued apologies to South Africans, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation. The scandal has not only affected the beauty pageant but also sparked wider discussions about identity, fraud, and the responsibilities of public figures.

Impact on international events

The controversy also had international ramifications. South Africa was withdrawn as the "country in focus" at the 2024 Puebla International Literature Festival (PILF), a prestigious event organized by the Africa Center Mexico. The festival, known for celebrating literature and cultural exchange, decided to distance itself from South Africa in light of the unfolding events.

In a statement, the festival organisers emphasised their commitment to justice and integrity: “The Puebla International Literature Festival aims to position itself as a beacon for the celebration of diverse voices, cultures, and ideas. We believe that literature has the power to challenge the status quo, to speak to authority, and to give a voice to the voiceless. However, we cannot, in good conscience, honour a country as a focal point of our celebration when it is currently embroiled in such profound injustices as has been currently gathering momentum following the Miss South Africa beauty pageantry.”