Manshika Prasad, recently crowned Miss Universe Fiji 2024, faced a whirlwind of confusion just days after her victory announcement. Allegations surfaced regarding vote rigging, sexual misconduct, and financial improprieties, leading to public outcry following a lengthy media assault launched by a rival contestant.
Despite the controversies and heavy accusations directed at her, the 23-year-old Prasad maintained a dignified silence. She refrained from engaging in social media disputes, even as her rival’s claims included serious allegations that some viewed as bordering on racism.
However, Prasad’s composure paid off as she addressed the situation yesterday, seeking to clarify her position as Miss Universe Fiji 2024. In a poised Instagram post accompanied by a glamorous photo of herself in a sleeveless white gown, she expressed her excitement about representing Fiji at the upcoming Miss Universe International pageant in Mexico. “Counting down days until I’m in Mexico for the 73rd Miss Universe,” she wrote, reassuring her followers by stating, “I am going officially as stated by Miss Universe Organisation. See you in Mexico.”
This development follows a month of tension which began when rival contestant Nadine Roberts publicly attempted to contest Prasad’s title. Roberts, who has familial ties to Fiji, remained firm in her claims. There have been ongoing concerns regarding a potential conflict of interest related to these claims, but Roberts has not addressed questions posed to her in recent weeks.
Speaking from Australia, Prasad emphasized that preparations for her trip to Mexico were well underway. Alongside her pageant responsibilities, she is dedicated to advocating against violence toward women and girls and is pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Administration.