Miss Universe 2025 victory sparks fairness and transparency debate

Wednesday 26 November 2025 - 15:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Miss Universe 2025 victory sparks fairness and transparency debate

Mexican contestant Fatima Bosch’s triumph at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand has ignited widespread controversy, with allegations of unfair practices overshadowing her victory. The pageant, held on November 21 at the Impact Challenger Hall near Bangkok, has come under scrutiny due to accusations of manipulation, judge resignations, and alleged conflicts of interest.

Allegations mar celebrations

While Bosch’s win brought pride to many in Mexico, questions quickly arose about the competition’s integrity. Mexican media reported that two judges resigned during the event, including jury member Omar Harfouch, who publicly described the selection process as “manipulated.” Rumors also surfaced that Raul Rocha, president and co-owner of the Miss Universe Organization, had business ties with Bosch’s father, Bernardo Bosch Hernandez.

Harfouch’s resignation and Rocha’s alleged connections to state-owned oil company Pemex, where Bernardo Bosch holds a senior position, have fueled suspicions about potential favoritism. Critics have also pointed to past investigations into Bosch’s father’s public office dealings as raising potential ethical concerns.

Host responds to criticism

Steve Byrne, who hosted the final event, addressed accusations that he announced the wrong winner or misread the list of finalists. On social media, Byrne categorically denied the claims, stating, “I did not read the list upside down or incorrectly. If I had, the pageant officials would have intervened immediately.” Byrne also admitted he initially thought Olivia Yace from the Ivory Coast would win based on her performance.

Yace’s exclusion from the top three has been a particular source of frustration among beauty pageant commentators. Many argued that her confidence and stage presence made her a stronger contender than Bosch, who some experts felt lacked the same level of poise.

Unrest among judges

Apart from Harfouch, two other judges reportedly resigned during the competition, citing dissatisfaction with the process. Media outlets in Mexico have highlighted Bosch’s father’s alleged links to Raul Rocha’s companies, which have previously secured sizable contracts with Pemex. These connections have raised further questions about the impartiality of the judging process.

Additionally, Bosch had recently criticized Nawat Itsaragrisil, the president of Miss Grand International, for his conduct during the competition. Observers believe her comments may have influenced opinions about her candidacy.

The runner-up title went to Veena Praveenar of Thailand, while Venezuela’s Stephany Abasaly placed third. Despite her victory, Bosch’s reign begins under a cloud of skepticism, with many calling for greater transparency in future pageants.