Panama’s Miss Universe candidate Italy Mora, has withdrawn from this year’s pageant, the Miss Universe organization announced on November 1.
The decision came after a thorough evaluation by the organization’s disciplinary commission. According to the organization, a full audit was conducted, including information gathering and reviews. Although no specific reasons were provided, the pageant group clarified that the most appropriate course of action under the current circumstances, was for Miss Panama to exit the competition.
“It is important to note that we made this decision with the utmost respect for all parties involved. Our number one priority remains the welfare and transparency for all of our candidates, who exemplify diversity, talent, and dedication,” the organization said in a statement.
The pageant organization stressed the importance of maintaining confidentiality and respect during the process, adding that they will adhere to strong ethical principles for their organization and participants’ sake.
“Over the years, our pageant has been a beacon of diversity, inclusion and empowerment for women around the world. In this regard, adhering to strong ethical principles, such as confidentiality and respect, is essential to maintaining the integrity of our organization and the well-being of our participants,” they said.
“As we move forward, we reaffirm our dedication to these principles, inviting all our participants, supporters and media to join us in this commitment. We kindly ask everyone to respect the privacy of our Panama candidate during this time and to avoid unnecessary speculation that may negatively affect all parties involved,” they added.
Miss Panama's Response
In an Instagram story, Miss Panama said she was informed about her exit the night she was getting ready to attend the gala night. Her withdrawal was due to her non-compliance with the given rules.
"I was told that this measure was taken due to non-compliance with leaving the room, which I admitted happened to put on makeup and pick up personal items. Unfortunately, I trusted and followed instructions without measuring the consequences,” Miss Panama wrote in her Instagram story, translated by the Latin Times.
“However, I would like to express that it was a severe measure and that it could have been solved with a dialogue or warning,” she added.
With the recent announcement, Miss Panama also clarified any false information on her departure and asked for respect and privacy during the process. Moreover, the candidate expressed that the event has been difficult to assimilate emotionally, considering the time and effort allotted for the pageant preparation.
“This event has been difficult to assimilate emotionally, especially because of the time, effort, resources, and support of the people who made possible my preparation to represent my country,” she said.
Miss Panama concluded her statement by showing her appreciation for the support and affection she received during the process.
