Miss Universe Fiji has decided to withdraw its financial support and is calling for a comprehensive investigation into the event organizers following allegations regarding the selection of an incorrect winner. The licensee for Miss Universe Fiji 2024, Lux Bali Project, made its return to the country this year after a 43-year absence.
Concerns have been raised about the crowning of Manshika Prasad as the winner, prompting Lux Projects Bali to question the process of selecting judges for the event, insisting that the licensee should have the authority to choose judges.
Originally, the organization had planned to make significant multi-year investments into the prestigious beauty pageant to enhance Fiji’s representation on an international platform. However, due to the controversy surrounding the announcement of the incorrect winner by the event organizers and the harm to the brand from their conduct, the Board has decided to withdraw all future funding.
Furthermore, Miss Universe Fiji has requested a full investigation into the actions of the contracted organizers, highlighting that the majority of the judges were appointed from their personal connections, which included family and friends. This situation allegedly resulted in discrimination against native Fijian contestants and ensured that a Fiji Indian titleholder was chosen, seemingly to secure lucrative global sponsorships and business opportunities at the expense of the Miss Universe Fiji brand.