Mandela’s Great-Grandson Demands R23 Million Compensation Over Identity Fraud Linked to Miss SA 2024 Finalist

In a dramatic turn of events, Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, the great-grandson of the late former President Nelson Mandela, has called for R23 million in compensation for a family allegedly affected by identity fraud. This comes in the wake of the recent scandal surrounding former Miss South Africa 2024 finalist Chidimma Onwe Adetshina.

In an open letter addressed to the Department of Home Affairs and published on social media, Mayibuye Mandela voiced his concerns regarding the identity theft case linked to Adetshina’s mother. The letter, dated August 9, 2024, was issued on Women’s Day, adding a poignant layer to the ongoing controversy.

The Scandal Unfolds

Chidimma Adetshina recently made headlines when she withdrew from the Miss South Africa 2024 competition following a legal challenge initiated by the Patriotic Alliance (PA). The party had filed urgent court papers to block her participation, citing allegations of identity fraud involving her mother.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber later revealed that an ongoing investigation into Adetshina’s citizenship had uncovered prima facie evidence of identity theft. The investigation, initially triggered by the Miss SA Organisation, had expanded its scope, leading to the discovery that Adetshina’s mother was implicated in stealing the identity of a South African citizen over 20 years ago.

Mayibuye Mandela’s Demands

In his memo, Mayibuye Mandela did not mince words, calling for immediate action from Home Affairs and other relevant state bodies. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the affected family had endured over two decades of suffering due to the alleged identity fraud.

“The family should receive no less than R23 million to address their longstanding suffering,” Mandela wrote. He further demanded accountability, insisting that all individuals involved in the fraud, including Adetshina’s mother and any complicit Home Affairs employees, be arrested and prosecuted.

Mayibuye Mandela clarified that his call for justice did not extend to Chidimma Adetshina herself, but rather to those directly involved in the crime. “Addressing this issue is crucial for upholding our institutions’ integrity and ensuring justice,” he concluded.

Public Reaction

The open letter sparked widespread debate on social media, with many praising Mandela’s stance on the matter. The timing of the letter, issued on Women’s Day, resonated with locals, adding fuel to an already heated discussion.

As the story continues to develop, all eyes are on the Department of Home Affairs to see how they will respond to the demands for compensation and accountability.

Conclusion

This unfolding scandal has not only cast a shadow over the Miss South Africa 2024 competition but also raised critical questions about identity fraud and justice in South Africa. As Mayibuye Mandela’s call for action reverberates through the public sphere, the nation awaits a resolution to this complex and controversial case.