Controversy Erupts After Miss Samoa Claims Pacific Islands Crown for Second Year

The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant faced controversy when judges were temporarily stopped from leaving Solomon Islands over fraud allegations following Miss Samoa's win. The exit ban was later lifted, though a police investigation continues. The pageant promotes Pacific culture, judging contestants on various traditional categories.

In a dramatic turn of events, organizers of the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant urged for unity after allegations of voting fraud marred the recent contest in the Solomon Islands. Claiming to ensure fairness, authorities temporarily restricted judges from leaving the country after Miss Samoa won the title for a second consecutive year.

A statement from the Solomon Islands outlined that border officials were instructed to enforce exit restrictions on judges and scrutineers after complaints surfaced regarding the legitimacy of Miss Samoa's victory. Despite the abrupt halt, two judges from Papua New Guinea and Tonga departed before the enforcement of the measure.

Leiataualesa Jerry Brunt, the Samoan head judge, expressed outrage, describing his treatment as unfair and calling for an apology. The competition, originally founded by the Samoan government to showcase regional culture, continues to operate amidst the investigation.

(With inputs from agencies.)