Miss Côte d’Ivoire Universe 2025, Olivia Yacé, has announced her resignation from the Miss Universe Africa and Oceania title, just days after receiving the honor during the Miss Universe 2025 coronation in Bangkok, Thailand.
Staying true to her values
In a bilingual statement released Monday, November 24, Yacé explained that her decision stems from a desire to remain “firmly anchored” in the values that guide her pursuit of excellence. “As the representative of Côte d’Ivoire at the Miss Universe 2025 competition in Bangkok, I witnessed firsthand my ability to achieve great things despite adversity. To continue on this path, I must stay true to my values: respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity — the strongest pillars that guide me,” said Yacé, who placed as 4th runner-up. She also announced that she would be cutting all ties with the Miss Universe Organisation.
“With a heart full of gratitude and profound respect, I hereby announce my resignation from the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, as well as from any affiliation with the Miss Universe Committee,” she added. Her decision comes amid a storm of controversies surrounding this year’s pageant.
Controversies on transparency
The competition has been marred by accusations of vote manipulation, several high-profile resignations, and a dramatic walkout by Miss Mexico — who ultimately won the crown.
Miss Universe Palestine, Nadeen Ayoub, also voiced concerns about irregularities in the “Most Beautiful People” category on the official Miss Universe app, alleging that voting remained open after the competition had officially ended, despite her being in the lead.
Earlier, pageant jury member Omar Harfouch resigned, citing a lack of transparency in the voting process. The acclaimed concert pianist and composer, who joined the judging panel in July, raised alarms after what he described as a “disrespectful conversation” with Raul Rocha regarding voting procedures. He added that he would no longer perform the music he composed for the event. French football manager Claude Makélélé likewise confirmed he would not attend, citing “personal reasons.”
“This was a difficult decision, as I hold Miss Universe in the highest regard,” Makélélé said, emphasising that his withdrawal should not be viewed as criticism of the pageant or its organisers. “The platform represents empowerment, diversity, and excellence — values I have always championed throughout my career.”
