In a surprising turn of events, Mr Teen Zimbabwe 2023, Abel Mugari, was reportedly dethroned over an alleged mere $30 (about R560) debt.
The decision, made by the organisers of Mr Teen Zimbabwe, has left many buzzing with questions.
The announcement of Mugari’s dethronement has sent shockwaves through social media.
In a statement seen by Earground, the organisers of Mr Teen Zimbabwe announced that they had stripped Mugari of his title. They vaguely mentioned that they found his behaviour “unacceptable.”
After he was controversially dethroned, he was immediately replaced by Mr Teen Zimbabwe 2022 David Takavarasha.
Following his abrupt dethronement, Mugari expressed his disappointment and sadness at the decision.
He revealed that he had been stripped of both his Mr Teen Zimbabwe title and his role as the Brand Ambassador for the Mr Teen Zimbabwe organisation.
On the notice to the public for Abel's removal as the title holder, it stated that the reason for his removal was not going to be publicised and yet you want to believe that he was removed over $30. Mr Teen Zimbabwe will not reverse this disciplinary action towards Mr. Abel Mugar
— Respect... (@PraiseNtopa12) October 11, 2023
Mugari revealed that the root cause of the controversy is related to a boot camp event organised by the pageant.
He claims that participants were expected to attend a Boot Camp, which came with a fee of $40.
However, due to logistical challenges, he failed to attend the camp. Mugari only made it to Bulawayo on the day of the Mr Teen Zimbabwe event, where he was crowned the winner.
Mugari explained that the event organisers insisted on full payment of $40 for the boot camp, despite his inability to attend. He managed to pay $10 and assured the organisers that he would discuss the balance payment with his parents.
Upon learning of the situation, his parents felt it was unjust to demand full payment for a camp he hadn’t participated in. However, they were prepared to pay 50% of the fee.
Unfortunately, the Mr Teen’s organisers refused this offer and quickly dethroned him. They also reportedly demanded the return of his sash and shield.