BUSTED

Zimbabwe’s Mr. Ugly Contest Turns Ugly

Contestants cry foul.

Zimbabwe held its annual Mr. Ugly contest in a Harare pub over the weekend, crowning 42-year-old Maison Sere with the dubious distinction. Only six entrants sought the title, and things took a controversial turn when former three-time victor William Masvinu took issue with the judge’s decision to allot him only second place this year.

"The judges were not fair, the organizers must look for new judges to start the contest afresh. I did not lose today," Masvinu told journalists, citing bias. Despite his complaints, however, the festivities continued undaunted.

Newly anointed Sere, missing teeth and wearing well-worn overalls, says he is unemployed, making the $500 cash prize all the more valuable. Average annual income in Zimbabwe is around $150.

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James Joiner

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