South Africa has been removed as the "country in focus" at the 2024 Puebla International Literature Festival due to controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina's nationality. The decision follows allegations of fraud and identity theft, leading to Adetshina's withdrawal from the Miss South Africa pageant and the festival's disapproval.
South Africa has been removed as the "country in focus" for the 2024 Puebla International Literature Festival (PILF) due to its handling of the controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina's nationality. The festival, set to celebrate global literary traditions, had initially chosen South Africa to be highlighted in its inaugural edition. However, recent developments led to the withdrawal of South Africa's status and the cancellation of invitations for its delegates.
The decision was announced by Ikenna Okeh, the festival’s director, who cited the victimization of Adetshina and other immigrant communities in South Africa as reasons for the change. Adetshina, a contestant in the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant, faced controversy over her eligibility due to her Nigerian and Mozambican heritage. Following allegations of fraud involving her mother's identity, Adetshina withdrew from the competition.
The festival organizers expressed regret over the decision but emphasized their commitment to supporting South African writers and artists, despite the controversy. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in South Africa over issues of nationality and immigration, and the broader implications for cultural events like the Puebla Festival.
