The Miss Solomon Islands Pageant is embroiled in controversy over alleged vote rigging in the 2025 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, prompting government intervention and travel restrictions for judges. The pageant director has called for calm while investigations proceed, emphasizing the need to protect the event’s integrity.
The Miss Solomon Islands Pageant director announced that the Solomon Islands government has intervened regarding allegations of vote rigging in the 2025 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant. Following the accusations, Samoan judge Leiataualesa Jerry Brunt and Vanuatu judge Jane Glen Canas were prohibited from leaving the country on Tuesday. Brunt denied the allegations, stating he was unaware of their origin.
Joyce Konofilia, the pageant director, appealed for calm amidst rising social media tensions, emphasizing, “I urge our people to remain calm, to bear with us for a little while as the government is going through the investigation.” She reassured that the integrity of the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant is paramount and the government has now assumed control of the situation.
As the event’s organizers await further updates, Brunt’s departure remains uncertain while steps are taken for his safety. Pamela Naesol, chief executive of the Institute of Solomon Islands Accountants, defended the pageant process, explaining a tie between contestants required the head judge’s vote to determine the winner of Miss Samoa.
Leiataualesa questioned the legality of the Solomon Islands government’s travel prohibition against him and Canas. It was reported that Samoa’s government has sought clarification from the Attorney General’s Office about the circumstances of the stop order. Leiataualesa threatened legal action against his accusers, insisting on an apology from the Government of Tonga for alleged defamation.
He called for unity and positivity, expressing that both countries should support the contestants and not lash out at one another, while hoping for a resolution. Concurrently, RNZ Pacific is seeking comments from the Solomon Islands government and the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant regarding the ongoing controversy.
The investigation into the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant’s integrity, prompted by allegations of vote rigging, has drawn significant attention. The Solomon Islands government has taken over the situation while the involved judges face travel restrictions. Amidst these tensions, efforts to maintain unity and support for the contestants continue. The resolution of this matter remains pending as further inquiries are made.
Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz
