Chidimma Adetshina's Lawyer Stefanie de Saude-Darbandi Faces Conflict of Interest Claims in High-Profile Deportation Battle
Background
Stefanie de Saude-Darbandi, the attorney representing former Miss Universe Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina in a high-profile deportation battle, has pushed back against growing accusations that her simultaneous appointment to the Department of Home Affairs' Immigration Advisory Board (IAB) creates a conflict of interest. De Saude-Darbandi is currently litigating against the Department of Home Affairs on behalf of Adetshina, while also serving as an independent member of the IAB that advises the department on immigration policy reform.
The Accusations
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has been among the loudest voices raising concern, publicly questioning de Saude-Darbandi's suitability for the board and penning an editorial asserting that her appointment "deserves public scrutiny" regarding who is advising Home Affairs and how potential conflicts are managed. Mashaba's comments follow an IOL report that highlighted the controversy surrounding de Saude-Darbandi's dual roles.
The Response
De Saude-Darbandi maintains there is a clear distinction between the two roles, arguing that representing clients against organs of state is standard legal practice and a cornerstone of the rule of law. She was appointed to the IAB on 1 April 2025 by Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber, as part of efforts to reform South Africa's struggling immigration system. De Saude-Darbandi's appointment has sparked debate over the potential for conflicts of interest in the Department of Home Affairs.
What This Means
The controversy surrounding de Saude-Darbandi's appointment highlights the complexities of the Department of Home Affairs' immigration policy reform. As the IAB advises the department on policy reform, it remains unclear how de Saude-Darbandi's dual roles will impact the outcome of Adetshina's deportation battle. The appointment has also raised questions about the potential for conflicts of interest in the Department of Home Affairs.
What Happens Next
The high-profile deportation battle between Adetshina and the Department of Home Affairs is set to continue, with the case postponed to 19 August for judgment in the Cape Town Regional Court. The outcome of the case and the potential implications of de Saude-Darbandi's dual roles remain uncertain, leaving many to wonder how the controversy will unfold.
Source: Briefly
