Tuyime was born in Welkom, Free State, to a Malawian father and a South African mother.
As tributes continue to pour in from various quarters for celebrated actress Konnie Chuime, poet Lebo Masir used the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the debate surrounding xenophobia.
“Who would doubt her identity, her contributions or her right to represent us with her beautiful work?” Mashiru tweeted on Wednesday morning, adding the hashtags “End Xenophobia” and “End Afrophobia.”
This comes after the renowned poet shared information that Tuime has a Malawian father and a South African mother and was born in Welkom in the Free State.
Masire's tweet comes in relation to the controversy that has engulfed the country in recent days surrounding Miss South Africa contestant Chidimma Adesina.
Adesina's participation in the popularity contest has sparked controversy as she has a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, despite being born and raised in South Africa.
Related article: Shocked as family confirms death of actress Connie Chiume
Her tweet was met with disapproval from netizens, who felt it was poorly timed, given that it had been less than 24 hours since Tuymeh's family confirmed her death on Tuesday.
I should have left this in my drafts, written it in my journal, or talked to a therapist or yoga teacher and resisted the urge to tweet this 💔💔May her soul rest in peace 🕊️
— #fikz (@Fikz_the_Cook) August 7, 2024
Kiume died at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg.
Hello Sister Rebo. Can we mourn Mrs. Connie without bringing her name into this mess? Hello.
— Siphosethu Tshapu (@__phopho) August 7, 2024
Good timing 🤦♀️ Send your condolences to the family and just move on.
— SewelaNkoana (@sewelankoana) August 7, 2024
Related article: Home Affairs Minister speaks out on South African nationality debate over Chidimma Adesina [VIDEO]
Mom Connie celebrates
Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie expressed a flood of condolences soon after news of the actress' death broke.
“Her performances brought joy, inspiration and pride to countless South Africans. She was more than an actress; she was an epitome of strength, tenacity and grace,” McKenzie declared.
“Mum Connie's contributions to the arts have done more than entertain — she has inspired, educated and uplifted communities across the country.”
Sad to hear of the passing of such an iconic and legendary figure. #Connie Chiume.
I remembered these words she said #FeliciaShow.
She said, “I didn't come here for the glamour or the money. I believe in 'calling'. God called me to be here.” It has deep meaning. Rest in peace Diva! 😪😪😪 pic.twitter.com/P3LYyeYy9n— Felicia Mabuza Satoru (@Feliciamabuza) August 6, 2024
talk Newsroom AfricaKiume's son, Nonjello Kiume, said one of his mother's favourite roles was playing Stella Moloi in the SABC1 drama series. Zone 14.
“She loved the character so much that she would always say, [that] “She's always played motherly characters for a long time, and when she was offered the role she said, 'Yes, I'll take it,' and she really enjoyed playing the role,” Nongelo said of her mother's award-winning performance in the drama series.
Gauteng Minister of Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Matome Chiloane also had kind words for the Chiume family.
“We are saddened by the death of beloved veteran actress Mama Connie Chiume. Her passing is a great loss to the country and the creative fraternity,” Chiloane said in a statement.
A curtain call for legendary award-winning actress and arts activist Connie Chiume.
Your incredible contributions to our industry and strong performances around the world have left an everlasting mark.
We will always remember and respect your influence. 🕊️❤️#RIPConnie Chiume… pic.twitter.com/6LsBmtL2wn
— Actor Spaces (@actorspaces) August 6, 2024
“We will fondly remember her meticulous talent that made her a unique performer and her vast body of work transcended borders and represented the star power of our great country. Her impact on screen was immeasurable and she will go down in history as one of our greatest storytellers.”
“I want people to remember me the way they like” 🥺❤️🩹🕊️
#RIPConnie Chiume pic.twitter.com/n7a3OjmmE7
— Switzerland 𝕏 (@BlxckSwiss_) August 6, 2024
“In honor of Women's Month, we want to pay tribute to her accomplishments and courage as a power queen who inspired countless creatives and brought the respect the industry deserves. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her loved ones and colleagues.”
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