Activist calls for government compensation and arrest of those involved in alleged identity theft linked to former Miss SA finalist Chidimma Adetshina.
(The Post News)- In a scathing letter, activist Mayibuye Mandela has lambasted the government for its handling of the identity fraud allegations surrounding former Miss SA finalist Chidimma Adetshina. Mandela is demanding millions in compensation for the victims of alleged identity theft linked to Adetshina’s case, citing the severe psychological impact and long-term suffering endured by those affected.
Adetshina’s nationality allegations have sparked a heated debate among South Africans, with many questioning her eligibility to compete in the Miss SA beauty pageant. Born and raised in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, Adetshina’s identity has been at the center of the controversy.
The Department of Home Affairs investigation uncovered possible fraud and identity theft cases linked to Adetshina’s mother’s identity, leading to Adetshina’s withdrawal from the competition. Mandela’s letter calls for government compensation for the victims affected by the identity theft, proposing R23 million over the past 23 years to alleviate long-term suffering.
Mandela’s appeal is not directed at Adetshina but at those specifically involved in the crime, including Adetshina’s mother and the Department of Home Affairs minister who issued the identity card. He emphasizes the need for swift action to safeguard the integrity of institutions and ensure justice.
The activist stresses that the severe psychological impact of identity theft must be taken into account, and the victim’s dignity and rights must be restored. Compensation would address the damages suffered by the victims, including loss of employment opportunities, financial services, and social benefits.
Mandela highlights the psychological and emotional burden of being a victim of identity theft for an extended period, emphasizing the need for significant resources for mental health support and counseling. As the Adetshina debacle continues to unfold, Mandela’s demands for justice and compensation serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of identity fraud.
In a separate development, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola has assured that the Adetshina controversy will not affect South Africa’s diplomatic relations with Nigeria. However, the incident has sparked a broader conversation about identity, citizenship, and the integrity of institutions in South Africa.
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