By Tamlyn Canham
Miss SA officials have given more clarity on Lalela Mswane‘s participation in the Miss Universe pageant in Israel.
The organisation has dismissed rumours that Lalela has withdrawn from the pageant. There have been growing calls for Miss SA to boycott the Miss Universe ceremony.
“Miss South Africa, Lalela Mswane, will represent South Africa at the Miss Universe competition… This is contrary to any indication otherwise,” officials said in a statement.
Miss South Africa Organisation CEO, Stephanie Weil, says they are “thrilled to be able to make Lalela’s childhood dream” come true.
Weil says the KwaZulu-Natal beauty has always wanted to represent South Africa globally.
“Mswane has spoken out openly about being bullied as a child. She will not be bullied as an adult against fulfilling her ambition.”
Miss SA officials say a “very, very small, but extremely vocal, group” has tried and failed to get her to withdraw from the pageant.
“Anyone who wants to rob Lalela of her moment in the spotlight is unkind and short-sighted. She is the shining beacon for young women everywhere, showing them that being beautiful while being clever and educated is very possible.”
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Lalela turns off Instagram comments
Miss SA faced further backlash after releasing the statement. “Shame on you,” one Instagram user commented.
“The event is very much political. Based on where it is occurring. For you to think any other way is shockingly stupid,” another user added.
Africa4Palestine says it has “no option but to embark on a vigilant campaign including protest actions” to reject Miss SA’s position on the matter.
Scores of people also left negative comments on Lalela’s Instagram page. She has since turned off her Instagram comments.
Many people have also come out to support Lalela.
“We are behind you, Lalela,” one fan commented on Miss SA’s page. “We will support,” another fan wrote.
Miss Universe officials are holding this year’s pageant in Eilat on December 13.



