Thandi Chisi breaks silence: ‘The truth will come out

’Miss Malawi 2025 Thandi Chisi has finally broken her silence over the Miss World controversy, declaring that “the relevant facts will emerge” as pressure mounts on the Miss Malawi Organisation over its contradicting explanations for snubbing her.

In a strongly worded public statement released on Monday, Thandi acknowledged the storm surrounding her crown but made it clear she would not be drawn into the escalating public row. Instead, she said she was choosing patience and restraint for due process.

“I am confident that in due course the relevant facts will emerge, and I will address this matter openly and responsibly at the appropriate time,” she said.

The statement is Chisi’s first public response since the Miss Malawi Organisation bypassed her for the Miss World pageant in favour of First Princess Ireen Navicha, triggering days of intense public debate.

The controversy has deepened after the organisation repeatedly changed its explanation for the decision. It first blamed Chisi’s age, then her lack of international pageant experience, before later returning to the age issue. Prophet Shepherd Bushiri’s Goshen City, the pageant’s principal sponsor, has since disclosed that there were communication and contractual challenges between Chisi and the Miss Malawi Secretariat.

Without mentioning any individual or organisation by name, Thandi said she was fully aware of the storm surrounding her position as Miss Malawi. She thanked Malawians who had stood by her, defended her character and believed in her throughout the controversy.

“To everyone who has stood by me, defended my character and believed in thThandirney, I sincerely extend my gratitude.”

The beauty queen said she remained committed to truth, integrity, fairness and the values expected of a Miss Malawi titleholder despite the unfolding controversy. She appealed for patience from her supporters, partners and the people of Malawi, saying she would speak when the appropriate time comes.

Ending her statement with a message widely seen as a reflection on the controversy, the reigning Miss Malawi wrote: “A crown does not make a Queen; character does. And no circumstance can take that away.”

By Mishek Kadwala