Calls for clarity on eligibility of Chidimma Adetshina for Miss SA

ANC secretary Fikile Mbalula has called the Home Affairs department to clarify the issue of the eligibility of Chidimma Adetshina for the Miss SA contest.

There has been an uproar as social media users have questioned Adetshina’s right to qualify for the pageant. Adetshina has a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent.

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Parties such as the EFF have strongly condemned the xenophobic attacks against Adetshina. They insist Adetshina meets all the eligibility requirements and criticised the Afrophobic nature of the backlash.

Sports Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gaston McKenzie has also suggested that her inclusion in the contest also gives funny vibes. This is after a video circulating on social media showing Adetshina celebrating with her Nigerian family.

WHAT ANC SECRETARY FIKILE MBALULA SAYS ABOUT THE ELIGIBILITY OF CHIDIMMA ADETSHINA FOR THE MISS SA PAGEANT

“You know the issue of foreigners in our country. What it has done because of the criminal behaviour of some foreigners in South Africa,” said Mbalula.

“So it’s a sensitive issue and it must be clarified. We need to deal with that particular issue guided by the laws of our own country. We must not be populist but we must be guided by the laws. 

“It is very strange that you are asking us but the organisers are very quiet. They have allowed this girl to be out there and be attacked. But the organisers are not saying anything,” he added.

“Home Affairs must clarify this issue. The Minister must clarify this particular issue. So that you don’t allow victimisation.”