Pageants in Fiji are facing significant scrutiny as former Miss South Pacific titleholder Alisi Rabukawaqa expressed concerns about the current state of these competitions. Her remarks follow the fallout between Dr. Peggy Ravusiro, Miss Fiji 2026, and the Miss Fiji Pageant committee, particularly regarding the committee’s decision to appoint Miss Nasinu and Miss Fiji first runner-up Ailava Samuels as the country’s representative for the upcoming Miss South Pacific pageant.
Rabukawaqa highlighted a troubling trend that she believes undermines the integrity of pageants in Fiji, referring to her own experiences from the regional competition in 2011. She emphasized the necessity of elevating the pageant experience and ensuring that young contestants are treated with respect. “Unfortunately, that has not happened,” she lamented, calling for former titleholders to lend their voices against what she perceives as injustices within the pageant systems.
In light of the current controversy, Dr. Ravusiro raised specific concerns about her contract, particularly over indemnity and termination clauses as well as a related endorsement. She sought amendments to these clauses during a press conference, pointing out that the original terms disproportionately protected the Miss Fiji Pageant while not extending the same safeguards to contestants. Dr. Ravusiro’s request for a fair rewording of clause eight aimed to ensure contestants receive protection against losses and damages resulting from breaches of contract.
The lack of transparency surrounding an endorsement mentioned in the contract was another issue for Dr. Ravusiro. She expressed that her attempts to obtain clear information about the endorsement were met with resistance. Tanya Waqanika, a Suva lawyer and Dr. Ravusiro’s aunt, remarked that seeking legal advice before signing contracts is standard practice, particularly when indemnity provisions are involved. She noted that by the time Dr. Ravusiro sought her counsel, many concerns had already arisen, especially surrounding indemnity.
While the Miss Fiji Pageant secretariat has yet to respond to these allegations or address Rabukawaqa’s comments, they have indicated that a statement is forthcoming. The upcoming Miss South Pacific pageant, scheduled to be held in Fiji from February 13-20, will serve as a backdrop to these ongoing discussions about the necessity for reform in the pageant industry in the region. Rabukawaqa’s call for empowerment and transparency remains a pivotal theme as contestants advocate for a more respectful and equitable environment in beauty pageants.
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