Asunción, Paraguay. Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla sparked controversy once again by stating that she has no intention of apologizing to French footballer Kylian Mbappé, following the racist comments she made after the match in which France eliminated Paraguay in the round of 16 of the World Cup.
During public statements, the legislator maintained: “I don’t have to apologize to Mbappé for saying that he sucked on coconuts instead of breast milk and only knew chimpanzees. I come from a society where gays were beaten and saying ‘fucking nigger’ was the most common thing.”
Read more: Mbappé issues a warning: “We also know how to play that kind of football”
Amarilla’s statements have been widely rejected by various sectors due to their discriminatory content and for referencing racist expressions and violence against historically vulnerable groups.
The controversy originated after the senator posted offensive messages directed at the captain of the French national team following the elimination of the Paraguayan squad. In response, Mbappé strongly condemned the statements.
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“You are a despicable woman and unworthy of your position”, expressed the French striker, who also pointed out that the legislator does not represent the values of the Paraguayan people.
“You do not represent Paraguay, that country that has exuded passion and honor throughout the entire competition,” added the attacker, recognized for his public stance against racism, discrimination, and hate speech.
The exchange has sparked a broad debate on social media and in various political and sports sectors regarding the responsibility of public officials when making statements and the need to combat racism in all areas.
