Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber has stated that the department will only investigate the nationality of Miss SA contestant Chidimma Vannessa Adetshina because her family requested it, not due to social media pressure, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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Some South Africans have questioned Adetshina’s eligibility for the title, citing her Nigerian-born father and Mozambican-born mother, despite her being born in South Africa. Schreiber emphasised that the investigation is being conducted at the family’s request to confirm her citizenship status and resolve any doubts.
‘We will inform the public once the investigation is complete. It’s important to note that this action is taken with the consent of the individuals involved. We will not breach the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI) or undermine legal principles based on unverified social media claims,’ Schreiber said in an interview.
He clarified that the department would not respond to social media demands without evidence.
‘We cannot act on allegations without evidence. If someone lodges a formal complaint with supporting evidence, we will investigate. However, no such complaint has been received.’
Schreiber reiterated that, according to the law, Adetshina is a South African citizen.
‘We must adhere to the rule of law and not be swayed by social media outcry. The government is committed to upholding the constitution and all relevant laws, including the POPI Act.’
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Picture: Chidimma Adetshina / Instagram
