The sports, arts, and culture minister, Gayton McKenzie, has returned from the Paris Olympics and is now turning his attention to a different kind of competition: the Miss South Africa pageant.
One of the key issues he is addressing is the eligibility of Miss SA Top 11 finalist, Chidimma Adetshina.
Chidimma Adetshina, who has a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent, has been a topic of heated debate on social media.
A video showing Adetshina celebrating with her family has triggered questions about her right to represent South Africa. McKenzie’s comment, “it’s giving funny vibes,” has only added fuel to the fire.
However, Miss SA organizers have clarified that Adetshina meets all the eligibility requirements, including holding a valid South African ID or passport.
Responding to calls from social media users, McKenzie has vowed to look into the matter. He stated, “I just returned from Paris and will definitely gather more information tomorrow [Tuesday].
“We cannot have Nigerians competing in our Miss SA competition. I want to get all the facts before I comment, but it already gives funny vibes.”
I just returned from Paris and will definitely get more information tomorrow, we truly cannot have Nigerians compete in our Miss SA competition. I wanna get all facts before I comment but it gives funny vibes already. https://t.co/KQ6K0MT6aG
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) July 29, 2024
His statements have garnered both support and criticism, with some considering his focus on this issue as trivial.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema defended Adetshina’s candidacy by emphasizing that her place of birth determines her citizenship.
“Your citizenship is determined by where you were born, so if she was born here, she’s South African,” Malema said on his party’s podcast. Meanwhile, an online petition calling for Adetshina’s removal from the competition has gathered significant support, nearing its goal of 5,000 signatures.
The petition argues that her mixed heritage may not align with the traditional values and identity of South Africa.
The controversy surrounding Adetshina’s eligibility continues to divide opinions, highlighting broader issues of identity and representation in South Africa.
