Miss Universe Fiji has decided to withdraw its funding and is calling for a thorough investigation into the event organizers following allegations regarding the selection of the winner. The licensee for Miss Universe Fiji 2024, Lux Bali Project, has returned to the country after a hiatus of 43 years.
Concerns were raised about the crowning of Manshika Prasad, prompting Lux Projects Bali to advocate for a review of the judges selected for the event, insisting that the licensee should make these appointments.
The organization initially intended to make a multi-year investment in the prestigious beauty pageant to ensure that Fiji was well-represented on the global stage. However, due to the controversy surrounding what they allege was an incorrect winner awarded by the event organizers and the damage to their brand due to the organizers’ conduct, the Board has decided to halt all future financial support.
Miss Universe Fiji is also demanding a comprehensive investigation into the actions of the contracted organizers, particularly regarding their selection of judges, which reportedly included family, friends, and business associates—leaving only one independent judge representing Miss Universe Fiji. This setup allegedly led to discrimination against native Fijian contestants, with claims that the outcome aimed to secure a Fiji Indian title holder, allegedly to attract lucrative global sponsorships and business deals, ultimately harming the Miss Universe Fiji brand.