Authorities are set to investigate a reported sexual harassment incident involving a contestant from the Miss Hibiscus pageant. Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that a complaint was filed at the Totogo Police Station on Friday and that an investigation is currently underway.
The allegations surfaced last week when a contestant accused a guest of ‘groping’ her by jabbing her in the back during the crowning ceremony held on September 7. The incident was brought to the attention of Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa, who subsequently initiated an internal investigation into the claims.
Minister Nalumisa emphasized the importance of professionalism in safeguarding the interests of all queen contestants, stating, “We will get to the bottom and find out what really happened.” He expects the investigation to be completed by the end of the week.
In related developments, Minister Nalumisa reached out to Tevita Boseiwaqa, the chairperson of the Suva City Council’s special administration, who is also involved in the investigation. The contestant formally reported her complaint to the police after deliberating with her family, despite initially wanting to wait for a witness to return from abroad.
The contestant alleges that the perpetrator, who appeared to be intoxicated, jabbed her during the event. She claims to have immediately reported the incident to event officials. Minister Nalumisa remarked that alcohol consumption should not excuse such inappropriate behavior.