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Puebla Literature Festival Withdraws South African Guests Over Chidimma Adetshina Controversy

By Odunmorayo Oke

09 August 2024   |   3:48 pm

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The Africa Center Mexico, the organiser of the 2024 Puebla International Literature Festival, has announced the cancellation of invitations to guests from South Africa. The decision comes in the wake of the recent controversy surrounding Nigerian-born model and former Miss South Africa (S.A) contestant, Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina. What the statement says In a statement issued…

The Africa Center Mexico, the organiser of the 2024 Puebla International Literature Festival, has announced the cancellation of invitations to guests from South Africa. The decision comes in the wake of the recent controversy surrounding Nigerian-born model and former Miss South Africa (S.A) contestant, Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina.

What the statement says

In a statement issued by the Puebla International Festival Director, Ikenna Okeh, the Center expressed deep concern over the “distressing events in South Africa” that have led to the “victimization” of Chidimma Adetshina, her family, and members of the immigrant community in the country.

“We regret to announce the decision to rescind South Africa’s designation as the Country-in-Focus for this year’s festival. And to also rescind the invitation of our South African guests,” the statement read. “This decision is coming after careful consideration of recent developments that have deeply troubled the African community.”

Controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina

The controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina’s participation in the Miss S.A competition has been a subject of intense debate in the country. Despite meeting all the competition requirements, Adetshina’s Nigerian heritage has been a point of contention. Many South Africans have been objecting to her participation.

The situation escalated further when the South African government alleged that Adetshina’s mother may have been involved in identity theft. A claim that has been strongly refuted by the young model.

Adetshina was born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a mother of Mozambican descent. She has withdrawn from the competition. She cited safety concerns for herself and her family.

More clarification from the statement

The Africa Center Mexico’s decision to revoke South Africa’s role is a direct response to these events.

The Center states that it cannot, in good conscience, “honour a country as a focal point of our celebration when it is currently in such profound injustices.”

“We believe that literature has the power to challenge the status quo, to speak to authority, and to give a voice to the voiceless,” the statement continued. “However, we cannot do so when the very principles of justice, equality, and human dignity that literature seeks to uphold are being undermined.”

The Puebla International Literature Festival is a popular global event that celebrates diverse voices, cultures, and ideas.

The Center has made it clear that this decision is not a rejection of South Africa’s rich literary heritage. Or the courageous artists and writers within the country. Instead, it is a statement against the current state of affairs that contradicts the values the festival aims to promote.

“We will continue to support and provide platforms for South African writers and thinkers who are working towards positive change,” the statement concluded. “However, we believe it is crucial to send a clear message that cultural recognition cannot be divorced from ethical responsibility.”