A public apology has been issued by Namibian social media personality Suzzy K, following widespread backlash over a viral video in which she made disparaging remarks about Miss Namibia 2025, Johanna Swartbooi.
The controversy began when a clip circulated online showing Suzzy K questioning the Namibian Pageantry Association’s choice of Swartbooi as the country’s representative at the Miss Universe competition in Thailand. In the video, she suggested that another contestant should have been chosen, using language that many viewers found demeaning and offensive.
Her comments, which included mocking references to Swartbooi’s appearance and origins, sparked public criticism and were described by some social media users as disrespectful and divisive.
Amid the growing backlash, Suzzy K released a formal statement on 16 November, explaining that the video was intended as a “marketing strategy” meant to boost national support and votes for the Miss Namibia contestant. She admitted that the approach was poorly executed and insisted that the message was never intended to promote tribalism or disrespect.
“I sincerely apologise to Miss Johanna Swartbooi, her family, and the Namibian people for the misunderstanding,” she said in the statement, adding that the video’s virality showed the strategy “worked—just not in the way I intended.”
She further expressed regret for the tone of the video and thanked the public for their understanding.
