Authorities are set to investigate a reported case of sexual harassment involving a contestant from the Miss Hibiscus pageant. Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that a report was filed at the Totogo Police Station on Friday and an investigation is currently in progress.
The incident came to light after a contestant alleged that she was groped by a guest during the event’s crowning night on September 7. Following these allegations, Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa initiated an internal inquiry to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Minister Nalumisa emphasized the need for professionalism to protect the interests of all contestants. He stated, “We will get to the bottom and find out what really happened,” and expressed his expectation that the investigation would be completed within the week.
The contestant officially lodged a complaint at the Totogo Police Station, having initially planned to wait for the return of a witness who was overseas. However, after discussions with her family, she decided to proceed with reporting the incident without further delay.
In her account, the contestant alleges that a man, who appeared to be intoxicated, jabbed her in the back, and she reported the incident to event officials immediately afterward. Minister Nalumisa added that consuming alcohol should never be used as an excuse for inappropriate behavior.