Manshika Prasad reinstated as Miss Universe Fiji amid voting scandal

Fiji’s first Miss Universe pageant in over 40 years has been rocked by allegations of vote-rigging, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a historic moment for the island nation. Manshika Prasad, a 24-year-old MBA student, was initially crowned the winner during the event held at Pearl Resort and Spa.

Days later, the title was unexpectedly handed to runner-up Nadine Roberts, prompting accusations of improper voting procedures. Judges were surprised when an absentee judge’s vote was counted after the event, leading to a tie-breaker in favour of Roberts, a model from Sydney.

Melissa White, a New Zealand judge at the pageant, told RNZ's Midday Report that the situation was "tainted," stating that the sudden appearance of an eighth vote was highly unusual. "It was unheard of to have an absentee judge suddenly make the deciding vote," she said.

The Miss Universe Organisation has since intervened, reinstating Prasad as the rightful winner after what White described as "an emotional rollercoaster" for the young contestant.

Neither Prasad nor Roberts has commented publicly, but Prasad shared on social media that she is excited to represent Fiji in the global competition in Mexico this November.