What Miss SA hopeful Chidimma Adetshina’s journey revealed

August 21, 2024

De Saude Darbandi

“If she was born in SA, had her birth registered here, and lived in the country until reaching the age of majority, she may still qualify for citizenship regardless of her parents’ status.”

Regarding the citizenship status of former Miss SA hopeful Chidimma Adetshina’s mother, which the Department of Home Affairs has suggested is fraudulent, it’s vital to step back and view the situation with a broader perspective.

Initially, the controversy surrounding Chidimma’s background was fuelled by xenophobic sentiments. Many assumed she was Nigerian due to her choice of flag and her family’s heritage.

Unfortunately, with the allegations of fraud, these assumptions may seem justified to some.

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that a foreigner alone cannot commit identity theft or fraud without assistance from someone within the system.

Fraudulent activities often involve multiple parties, and in many cases, foreigners approach the Department of Home Affairs for assistance and are provided with incorrect guidance.

It’s possible that Chidimma’s mother might have been a victim of such systemic issues, rather than a perpetrator of fraud.

The exact nature of the allegations against Chidimma’s mother remains unclear.

We don’t know whether the fraudulent activity pertains solely to her citizenship status or if it also involves a permanent residency.

According to SA law, a prerequisite for citizenship by naturalisation, which we were told is how she obtained her status, is holding a valid permanent residency permit. We don’t know if Chidimma’s mother had permanent residency status.

If her mother had lawful permanent residency at the time of Chidimma’s birth, then Chidimma’s citizenship in law should still stand.

However, if her mother’s permanent residency and citizenship were fraudulent, then Chidimma’s status as an SA citizen is in jeopardy.

Regardless of the outcome, it is important to recognise that Chidimma is a victim in this situation.

She has lived her entire 23 years in South Africa, believing herself to be a legitimate citizen.

She should not bear the consequences of any fraudulent actions taken without her knowledge or consent.

It’s also vital to consider that Home Affairs’ systems and processes can sometimes fail, leading to unintentional fraudulent statuses for individuals.

SA citizenship law, particularly section 4(3) of the Citizenship Act, offers a pathway for individuals like Chidimma.

If she was born in SA, had her birth registered here, and lived in the country until reaching the age of majority, she may still qualify for citizenship regardless of her parents’ status.

This provision serves as a safeguard, ensuring that those who have established their lives in SA are not unfairly penalised due to bureaucratic errors or their parents’ actions.

It is a challenging and unprecedented situation, and it requires a compassionate and fair approach from all parties involved.

It should serve as a wake-up call for all South Africans. It highlights the need to address systemic issues within the Department of Home Affairs and to ensure that the processes for obtaining residency and citizenship are transparent and fair.

Moreover, it calls for introspection about the xenophobia and discrimination in our society.

Chidimma’s experience is a reminder of the human cost of prejudice and the importance of fostering a culture of empathy and understanding.

Her story is not just about a beauty pageant; it is about identity, belonging, and the right to be recognised as a part of the nation one calls home.

For 23 years, she has lived as a South African, contributed to the community, and now finds herself in the spotlight, facing an identity crisis.

One can only imagine the emotional turmoil she is experiencing.

As we continue to follow this story, let us remember that behind the headlines is a young woman whose life has been turned upside down.

Her journey is a call to action for greater inclusivity, understanding and reform. We must ensure that our laws and systems protect the rights of people and reflect the values of a just society.

Every person has a story, and every story deserves to be heard with compassion.

Let this be an opportunity to build a more inclusive SA, where diversity is celebrated, and everyone, regardless of their origin, has the chance to belong.