South African Government Withdraws Support for Miss Universe Contingent in Israel

The South African government has distanced itself from a decision by the Miss South Africa pageant organizers to participate in the annual Miss Universe contest, scheduled to hold in Israel by December.

A statement signed by the Minister of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, disclosed that the decision was taken after growing calls for the reigning Miss South Africa, Lalela Mswane, to boycott the pageant due to atrocities committed by Israel against Palestinians.

Meanwhile, Local beauty pageant organizers have been adamant to the call, arguing that the Miss Universe pageant is not politically inspired.