The Hibiscus Carnival’s much-anticipated Fashion Parade was cancelled in 1996. Event coordinator Ana Sweetman explained in a statement to the media on August 21, 1996, that the decision stemmed from various organizational challenges.
“We regret to have to make this decision, but unfortunately, confirmation for holding the event, as well as for sponsorship, came in too late,” Mrs. Sweetman stated. She added, “It would be unfair on the public to just present a fashion show for the sake of it without proper planning.” The fashion parade had long been a key highlight of the carnival.
Organizers had aimed to commemorate the carnival’s 40th anniversary with a special show featuring former Hibiscus queens alongside their children as models. “It’s a pity because this year, we wanted to celebrate the milestone with something special,” she lamented.
Additionally, there were signs of reconciliation within the carnival’s organizing committee. Publicity officer Elenoa Sikivou, who had voiced concerns over judging inconsistencies in past events, revealed that High Court Judge Justice Daniel Fatiaki would supervise the judging process moving forward. Previously, queens’ committee chairman Arthur Hazelman had disagreed with Sikivou’s remarks, as he believed they undermined the credibility of the judges and the event organizers from prior years.
Former president of the Fiji Hibiscus Association and vice-president of the Suva Chamber of Commerce, Litia Koto Vakarewakobau, also criticized the committee’s performance at the time. She raised concerns over the absence of published audited accounts and urged for increased transparency. “Why aren’t they publishing the audited accounts?” Mrs. Vakarewakobau questioned.
She pointed out that the committee was also under scrutiny for not holding or promoting public annual general meetings, a practice she noted was standard during her time as president. She stressed that all profits from events and stalls were directed to charity under her leadership.