Windhoek, Namibia — The Miss Namibia Organisation has announced that it is consulting with legal counsel after reigning Miss Namibia, Johanna Swartbooi, became the target of a wave of racist and tribalist online harassment while competing at the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand.
In a statement, the organisation’s CEO, Umbi Karuaihe-Upi, condemned the “disgusting and unprecedented” attacks on Swartbooi, calling them “not only tribalist and cyberbullying, but also racist and a defamation of character.”
“Johanna has her civil liberties and is fully protected by the laws of this country with regards to racism and defamation of character,” Upi said, adding that the organisation is working with lawyers and will “address it in due course.”
Support from the Miss Namibia Sisterhood
Former Miss Namibia titleholders have rallied around Swartbooi, strongly denouncing the online backlash. Among them, Miss Universe Namibia 2021, Chelsi Shikongo, described the criticism as an expression of tribalism and called for national solidarity.
“She’s already dealing with a lot … seeing such comments can break you down,” Shikongo said, calling for a kinder and more supportive online environment.
Legal Protections and National Implications
Upi emphasised that Swartbooi’s rights are protected under Namibian law, citing defamation and anti-racial provisions. Namibian legal experts note that defamation is recognized under common law and can also be criminal, while laws such as the Communications Act and the Criminal Procedure Act provide recourse for cyberbullying, hate speech, and online harassment.
Government and Public Reaction
The issue has drawn attention beyond the pageant world. Emma Theofelus, Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, has publicly addressed the problem of tribal discrimination online. She referenced growing online tribalist attacks and expressed concern about the long-term consequences of normalizing prejudice.
In response, her ministry launched an “Ethical Use of Social Media” campaign aimed at curbing cyberbullying, promoting respectful discourse, and addressing racial discrimination on digital platforms.
Focus Remains on Pageant Journey
Despite the backlash, Miss Namibia Organisation says Swartbooi is well-supported by her family and pageant leadership. Upi said they are maintaining a “positive focus” on her performance at the Miss Universe contest. According to Upi, Swartbooi remains mentally strong and is determined to compete with pride.
The Miss Universe crowning ceremony is scheduled for Friday.
