Miss Côte d’Ivoire Universe 2025, Olivia Yacé, has resigned from her title as Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, just days after being crowned during the Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 24, in both English and French, Yacé said her decision was driven by a desire to “remain firmly anchored” in her personal values, which she described as respect, dignity, excellence, and equal opportunity. She finished the competition as fourth runner-up.
“As the representative of Côte d’Ivoire at Miss Universe 2025, I realized that I could achieve great things despite challenges. To continue progressing, I must remain true to my values,” Yacé said. She also announced she would sever all ties with the Miss Universe Organization.
Her resignation comes amid controversies surrounding the pageant, including allegations of vote manipulation, resignations by high-profile participants, and a dramatic walkout by Miss Mexico, who ultimately won the crown. Miss Universe Palestine, Nadeen Ayoub, raised concerns over the “Most Beautiful People” voting, claiming votes remained open after the competition ended, despite her leading position.
Earlier, jury member Omar Harfouch resigned, citing a lack of transparency in the voting process and criticizing interactions with the pageant’s organizers. French football manager Claude Makélélé also confirmed he would not attend the event for personal reasons, emphasizing his respect for the platform and its values of empowerment and diversity.
