Miss Zimbabwe dethroned following naked photo controversy

Following the resignation of pageant winner Thabiso Phiri, allegedly prompted by compromising photographs leaked by a boyfriend that showed up on the Internet, the Miss Zimbabwe Trust has crowned 19-year-old Catherine Makaya as the new Miss Zimbabwe 2014.

Miss Makaya was crowned at a supplemental pageant contested by just four hopefuls a month after the original event. Ms Phiri was also present at the pageant but elected to sit quietly beside Miss Zimbabwe Trust chairperson Mrs Mary Chiwenga.

It was an emotional time for Mrs Chiwenga, who continuously sobbed throughout the almost two-hour programme. She said she was heartbroken over Miss Phiri’s decision to stand down.

“I promised Thabiso’s brother the night she won that I would take care of her as a mother, sister and friend,” said Mrs Chiwenga in an interview, adding: “I worked hard and invested so much into preparing her for the Miss World.

“She is an orphan and I wanted good things for her. I was heartbroken [over the leaked pictures] because she has a good heart.”

Contrary to expectations, the contestants who finished behind the disgraced former winner were not promoted. First runner-up to Miss Phiri, Letwin Chinomona, and second runner-up, Tendai Hunda, were both at the second pageant as spectators and said to be happy with their achievements. Controversially, both girls will retain their prizes and runner-up status.

“We are happy with what we have,” Miss Chinomona said as Miss Hunda nodded in agreement, “We celebrated our victory on July 14 and we are happy with our prizes.”

Miss Makaya expressed excitement over her victory. “I am very happy,” she said. “I did not expect to win. I just want to thank everyone for the support.” Catherine beat three other contestants; Maita Kainga, Melissa Chikerema and Rairo Gunguwo to claim the coveted crown.

Apart from the honour of representing Zimbabwe at the Miss World contest in London later this year, Catherine Makaya will receive a Chevrolet Chevy Cruz, an iPad Mini, cosmetic hampers, a fuel allowance and medical aid for her efforts.