How to Become a South African Citizen | Miss SA Finalist Chidimma Adetshina’s Controversy Explained

In this video, Kim and Kwaledi break down what it takes to become a South African citizen. They also discuss the controversy surrounding Miss South Africa finalist Chidimma Adetshina, who recently withdrew from the pageant due to questions about her citizenship. Tune in to understand the legal requirements for South African citizenship and how this impacted Adetshina’s journey in the Miss SA competition.

To become a South African citizen, several requirements must be met depending on the pathway chosen, such as birth, descent, or naturalization. Let’s break down these pathways:

1. Citizenship by Birth

If you are born in South Africa and at least one of your parents is a South African citizen or has been admitted for permanent residence, you are automatically considered a South African citizen by birth.

2. Citizenship by Descent

You can acquire South African citizenship by descent if you are born outside the country to at least one South African parent or grandparent who was born in South Africa.

3. Citizenship by Naturalization

Naturalization is a common pathway for those who are not South African by birth or descent. To qualify for naturalization:

• You must have been a permanent resident of South Africa for at least 5 years.
• You must have lived in South Africa continuously for 1 year before applying.
• You should intend to live in South Africa after naturalization.
• You must be of good character, and in some cases, you may be required to demonstrate knowledge of one of the official South African languages.

Controversy Around Chidimma Adetshina

The discussion around Chidimma Adetshina, a Miss South Africa finalist, highlights the complexities of citizenship and national identity. Adetshina faced backlash and eventually withdrew from the competition after it was revealed that she was not a South African citizen.

Kim and Kwaledi, two commentators, discuss how this incident brings to light the stringent requirements for citizenship in South Africa. While Adetshina may have met the residency requirements, the fact that she did not hold South African citizenship sparked controversy in a competition that emphasizes national representation.

This situation has led to broader conversations about the inclusivity and diversity of national identity in South Africa, especially in high-profile events like beauty pageants. It raises important questions about who gets to represent South Africa on such platforms and how citizenship laws impact individuals who consider themselves South African in every aspect but legal status

To become a South African citizen, several requirements must be met depending on the pathway chosen, such as birth, descent, or naturalization. In a revealing interview, our legal expert meticulously examines the controversy, breaking down the complexities of citizenship laws and how they intersect with pageantry. The discussion opens with a clear explanation of South Africa’s legal definition of citizenship and how it applies to individuals like Chidimma Adetshina.

The video delves deeper into the specifics of the allegations, questioning whether Chidimma Adetshina meets the stringent requirements set by the Miss South Africa pageant. The lawyer highlights key legal precedents and explores the potential consequences for both the contestant and the competition.