Bangkok: Just days before the grand finale, the Miss Universe 2025 competition has been plunged into controversy. Omar Harfouch, a prominent member of the final selection committee and noted composer, has officially resigned from his role as a judge.
In a video statement accompanied by a written post, Harfouch leveled serious allegations against the organization, claiming the competition process is compromised and lacks transparency.
The Core Allegations
Harfouch cited two primary reasons for his abrupt resignation, pointing toward a “fake” judging process:
- The ‘Secret Vote’ for the Top 30: Harfouch revealed that a “secret vote” was conducted two days prior to the finale to select the Top 30 contestants out of the 136 participants. Shockingly, he stated that this vote was conducted by individuals who are not official members of the jury, leaving the actual judges excluded from this crucial selection process.
- Conflict of Interest: He alleged that the results of this secret vote are known to only one individual. According to Harfouch, this individual is affiliated with a national organization of one of the participating countries, creating a clear and unethical conflict of interest.
“Pretending Otherwise Would Be Dishonest”
In his statement, Harfouch expressed that he could not, in good conscience, deceive the viewing public. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that the elimination of certain contestants carries geopolitical weight.
He stated:
I could not stand before the public and television cameras, pretending to legitimize a vote I never took part in. Some of the countries eliminated through this process could be at war, discriminated against, or geopolitically sensitive. Viewers would assume the jury made these decisions, and I cannot bear responsibility for a process I did not participate in.”
Impact on the Event
This resignation casts a shadow over the upcoming finale. Harfouch has clarified that he refuses to be a “false witness” to a pre-determined outcome. Following his resignation, reports suggest he will no longer be performing the piano piece he composed specifically for the event, and the organization has reportedly severed ties with him.
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