Fiji’s return to the Miss Universe beauty pageant after 43 years has been marked by significant controversy. The Miss Universe pageant, which began in California in 1952, is renowned as the world’s largest annual international beauty competition, drawing immense public interest and viewership. Contestants benefit from winning through financial rewards, career opportunities, global recognition, networking, and personal growth. Yue Sai Kan, a two-time Miss Universe judge and entrepreneur, noted that the competition also facilitates opportunities in film and advertising for the finalists.
To participate in the international Miss Universe pageant, candidates must first secure a win at their national level. This year, the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) announced the removal of age restrictions for participants, clarifying that there will be no age limits for all 2024 pageants globally. Previously, in 2022, the MUO had allowed married women and mothers to compete, lifting restrictions on marital status. Additionally, contestants must be citizens of the countries they represent and provide proof of citizenship.
On July 27, Miss Universe Fiji (MUF) declared that Fiji would once again participate in the Miss Universe pageant, set to take place in Mexico in December. MUF also introduced Lux Projects Bali (Fiji) as the official license holder for MUF 2024. Following an announcement on July 19 confirming Paris Jade as MUF’s national director, the organization invited candidates aged 18 to 32 to register. Entry guidelines specified that applicants must be of Fijian heritage or a citizen of Fiji. On August 15, MUF revealed the names of the top 10 finalists and announced a panel of judges.
On August 30, Manshika Prasad was crowned the 2024 Miss Universe Fiji at the MUF National Final held at The Pearl Resort & Spa in Pacific Harbour, with Susan Ranadi and Nadine Roberts named as co-runners up. However, just three days later, on September 2, MUF released a statement claiming that Prasad had been incorrectly awarded the title and that it should have gone to Roberts. The organization cited a tie in the voting process and alleged that the decision should have rested with Lux Projects. Claims emerged that the event’s contracted organizer, Grant Dwyer, had a bias toward a competitor of Fijian-Indian descent.
Dwyer countered these assertions, affirming that Prasad was rightfully recognized as the winner, as she had garnered the support of all judges, including Lux Projects’ representative. Amidst escalating tensions, Dwyer’s contract was terminated by Lux Projects, which cited concerns about the fairness of the judging process. Confusion persisted as MUF announced that Lux Projects had concluded its licensing agreement and halted funding due to the unrest surrounding the results of the pageant.
On September 6, MUF suggested that both Prasad and Roberts could be disqualified, as neither resides in Fiji. Investigations revealed that Dwyer was managing Prasad, leading to claims of manipulated results. Meanwhile, an allegation surfaced regarding Roberts’ relationship with Jamie McIntyre, owner of Lux Projects, which both denied.
MUF later stated that Prasad was disqualified because Dwyer, who had been terminated, appointed the majority of judges. Dwyer defended the selection process, insisting it was fair and that he was not involved in the outcome manipulation. As the Miss Universe pageant approaches, the dispute between Lux Projects and Dwyer continues, with MUO yet to comment on the ongoing controversy.