Allegations of sexual harassment have arisen from the recent Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, following reports from a contestant who expressed feeling “uncomfortable” during a public event in Suva. Claims of inappropriate touching have surfaced, compounding concerns that emerged earlier this month when police launched an investigation into sexual assault accusations connected to Miss Universe Fiji 2024.
The Hibiscus Festival committee has downplayed the situation, describing the alleged incident as a “jab” to the contestant’s back. However, there are reports suggesting that the suspect was intoxicated and was subsequently removed from the venue.
According to the contestant at the center of the allegations, she felt shaken and embarrassed but opted not to file a police report. She expressed worry about being seen as having a “sour grapes” mentality since the incident occurred during the crowning event. Another individual reported that the perpetrator touched her inappropriately, stating, “A man I didn’t know touched me from behind, which made me feel uncomfortable. He was drunk and took advantage of me that night.”
Following the incident, the contestant requested her friends to leave the VIP tent as she felt unsafe. She packed her belongings and left her hotel that same evening to return home.
Sera Tikotikoivatu-Sefeti, the 2010 Miss Hibiscus Queen, condemned the harassment, stating that such behavior is unacceptable.
Committee chairperson Opetaia Ravai acknowledged being informed of the incident but clarified that he did not witness it. He noted, “I was told the suspect jabbed the contestant’s back, and there was no indication it was sexual in nature.” Mr. Ravai later escorted the suspect from the premises. Text messages obtained indicate that the suspect has since apologized to the contestant involved.