Minister Kiran urges dialogue amid Miss Fiji pageant dispute

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran has urged dialogue and mutual respect amid an escalating contract dispute involving the Miss Fiji Pageant.

The dispute centres on a disagreement between Miss Fiji titleholder Dr Peggy Ravusiro and Miss Fiji Pageantry, led by director Ana Tuiketei.

Dr Ravusiro has alleged bullying and body shaming during discussions over her role and obligations — claims that have sparked widespread public debate, particularly on social media. Ms Tuiketei has denied the allegations.

Ms Kiran described the situation as “a rather sad expression” of issues that should ideally have been resolved internally.

She said disagreements, particularly on platforms intended to empower women, should be addressed through dialogue rather than public confrontation.

“We have seen outstanding work done through this pageant platform. An amazing number of women have spoken about important issues, and it has been empowering,” she said.

Ms Kiran stressed that bullying and body shaming were unacceptable in any setting, adding that the tone of online commentary directed at both Dr Ravusiro and Ms Tuiketei was also concerning.

“What we are seeing on social media, to me, is abuse of all parties, which is even more sad,” she said.

“If people want to offer constructive criticism, it should be done with respect.”

She urged social media users to act responsibly and called on women to support, rather than undermine, one another.

“When women tear each other down, that really disempowers women,” Kiran said.

“I plead with all parties to negotiate, discuss and create a space where women feel lifted by each other.”

Meanwhile, the Online Safety Commission has issued a public advisory urging caution when posting or sharing content online, following concerns over commentary linked to the Miss Fiji Pageant.

The commission said courts may consider several factors when determining whether an electronic communication has caused harm, including the severity of language, images or videos used, how widely the content was circulated, and the context in which it appeared.

It said its message to the public was simple: think carefully before clicking post, share or send.