Miss Tonga, Racheal Guttenbeil, has extended her congratulations to Miss Samoa, Litara Ieremia-Allan, on winning the 2025 Miss Pacific Islands title. Amid ongoing investigations into alleged vote rigging, Guttenbeil said she would not accept the crown if the claims are substantiated.
“My sister Miss Samoa did so well…as well as my other Pacific sisters,” Guttenbeil said in an interview with ABC Pacific. “On the last day, the girls, we were sharing our thoughts…no matter what happens around us, we stand united, our bond is beautiful and should not be tarnished.”
The controversy arose after a tie between Guttenbeil and Ieremia-Allan was decided by head judge Leiataualesa Jerry Brunt, who cast the deciding vote in favour of Miss Samoa. This decision led to allegations of vote rigging, resulting in Solomon Islands authorities issuing a stop order against the judges, temporarily preventing Brunt from leaving the country. The order has since been lifted, but investigations continue.
“I would not accept it (the title),” Guttenbeil said. “If she’s announced the winner, let her take the crown.”
Brunt has denied any wrongdoing and expressed his intention to pursue legal action against those making the allegations. He emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony between Tonga and Samoa, urging people to “be kind to each other… and keep the Pacific spirit within ourselves.”
The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant Board has acknowledged the distress caused by the dispute and condemned the threats made against judges and contestants. They have not yet addressed the specific allegations of vote rigging.
Meanwhile, the Pacific community awaits the outcome of the investigation by the Solomon Islands authorities.
