Sexual harassment allegations have surfaced from the recent Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, following a contestant’s claim of feeling “uncomfortable” during a public event in Suva. Reports have emerged of inappropriate touching, heightening concerns that began weeks earlier when police initiated an investigation into sexual assault allegations related to Miss Universe Fiji 2024.
The Hibiscus Festival committee has downplayed the incident, referring to it merely as a “jab” to a contestant’s back. However, it has been reported that the alleged perpetrator was under the influence of alcohol and was subsequently removed from the venue.
The contestant at the center of the allegations expressed feeling shaken and embarrassed, ultimately deciding against filing a police report due to fears of being viewed as having “sour grapes,” as the incident occurred on crowning night. Another individual who came forward claimed that the assailant 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 events, the contestant asked her friends to leave the VIP area, packed her belongings, and returned home that same evening.
Sera Tikotikoivatu-Sefeti, the 2010 Miss Hibiscus Queen, spoke out against the harassment, asserting that such behavior is unacceptable.
Committee chairperson Opetaia Ravai acknowledged hearing about the incident but admitted he did not witness it himself. He stated, “I was told the suspect jabbed the contestant’s back, and there was no indication it was sexual in nature.” Ravai later took action by escorting the suspect off the premises. Text messages obtained indicate that the suspect later issued an apology to the contestant involved.