Miss Fiji, Dr. Peggy Ravusiro, has clarified that she did not refuse the opportunity to represent Fiji but chose to withdraw after her requests for contract amendments were not met by the pageant organizers. She expressed concerns regarding certain clauses in the agreement that she believed would jeopardize her rights, wellbeing, and reputation.
Dr. Ravusiro stated that while the official explanation mentioned her failure to sign the contract within the allotted timeframe, this was only part of the story. She emphasized that her decision was rooted in her desire to protect herself amid concerns about legal and financial exposure due to potential misconduct or reputational harm associated with the pageant.
She sought various amendments to the contract, including provisions that would allow her to terminate the agreement if the pageant or its representatives engaged in misconduct. Furthermore, she raised issues regarding confidentiality requirements that she felt hindered her ability to seek independent legal advice on the binding document.
Despite her efforts to engage in good faith discussions, Dr. Ravusiro felt her attempts to seek clarification were misconstrued as disrespect, leading to a distressing experience. She noted that the treatment she received went against the empowering spirit typically associated with such pageants, citing inappropriate remarks about her character and appearance.
In light of these circumstances, the Miss Fiji Pageant director, Ana Tuiketei-Bolabiu, confirmed that first runner-up Ailava Samuels has been appointed to represent Fiji at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026. The pageant is set to take place in four weeks, and registrations have already closed.
Dr. Ravusiro, who won the Miss Fiji title last month as Miss Labasa, thanked her supporters and expressed hope for a positive future for the next representative. Her decision may resonate with others advocating for fair treatment and transparency in competitive spaces, reflecting an important dialogue about the responsibilities and expectations placed on public figures.