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The Miss South Africa Organisation has defended the selection of newly crowned winner Tiyani Makamu, saying the judging process was conducted independently and in line with established criteria, despite public criticism following the finale.
In a statement, the organisation acknowledged disappointment and questions from some South Africans over the outcome, but said it stood by the judges’ decision and the qualities that earned Tiyani the title.
It also sought to clarify concerns about the crown presented during the finale, explaining that it was a temporary ceremonial crown while preparations for the official version were being completed.
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The organisation said it intended to involve the public in the unveiling of the official crown, which it described as a symbol that should reflect the collective identity and aspirations of South Africans. It admitted, however, that the plan should have been explained before the finale.
“We acknowledge that this intention should have been communicated more clearly ahead of the finale,” the statement said, adding that the lack of context had created unnecessary uncertainty.
SOUTH AFRICA, MEET YOUR MISS SOUTH AFRICA 2026! 👑🇿🇦
A crown earned. A voice ready to lead. A mandate ready to be lived.
Congratulations to Tiyani Makamu, our newly crowned Miss South Africa 2026!
Tonight, a new chapter begins. She steps into this role not simply to wear the crown, but to use her voice, influence and platform to champion opportunity, empower young people and create meaningful change.
She carries the strength of those who came before her and the promise of what is still to come.
This is her moment. This is her mandate. And this is a new era. 💜✨
#MissSA2026 #TheMandate #EmpowerYouthAfrica #BeautyThatBuilds
— Miss South Africa (@Official_MissSA) November 14, 2026
Addressing questions about the judging criteria, the organisation said beauty, elegance, confidence and stage presence remained important, but argued that the winner should also demonstrate intelligence, leadership, authenticity, compassion and strong communication skills.
It said the competition sought to select an ambassador capable of inspiring others, supporting important causes and representing the country, particularly in promoting opportunities for women and young people.
SOUTH AFRICA, MEET YOUR MISS SOUTH AFRICA 2026! 👑🇿🇦
A crown earned. A voice ready to lead. A mandate ready to be lived.
Congratulations to Tiyani Makamu, our newly crowned Miss South Africa 2026!
Tonight, a new chapter begins. She steps into this role not simply to wear the crown, but to use her voice, influence and platform to champion opportunity, empower young people and create meaningful change.
She carries the strength of those who came before her and the promise of what is still to come.
This is her moment. This is her mandate. And this is a new era. 💜✨
#MissSA2026 #TheMandate #EmpowerYouthAfrica #BeautyThatBuilds
— Miss South Africa (@Official_MissSA) November 14, 2026
The organisation said all 12 finalists brought exceptional qualities to the competition and that the result reflected the collective assessment of the independent judging panel.
“While we respect that South Africans may have had their personal favourites, the outcome reflects the considered decision of the judges entrusted with this responsibility,” it said.
It urged the public to support Tiyani as she begins her reign, saying she deserved the opportunity to take up the role with dignity and encouragement.
The organisation added that South Africans would learn more about the new queen’s background, aspirations and intended causes in the coming weeks.
It said it remained committed to listening to public concerns and communicating more transparently, while insisting that disagreements over the competition should not undermine the dignity of its contestants.
“Miss South Africa is a national institution, and the voices of South Africans will always matter,” the statement said.
