Resignation of Miss Nicaragua Director Amid Allegations of Conspiracy and Treason
Apr
Karen Celebertti, the director of the Miss Nicaragua pageant, has stepped down from her position just one week after being charged with conspiracy and treason by the country’s national police. This abrupt development follows the historic victory of Sheynnis Palacios, the reigning Miss Nicaragua, at the recent Miss Universe 2023 pageant in El Salvador.
In a statement posted on her Instagram account, Celebertti, who has led the Miss Universe franchise in Nicaragua for over two decades, announced her resignation without directly addressing the allegations against her. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity to promote Nicaraguan talent and beauty but did not elaborate on the charges brought against her, her husband, and son.
The accusations against Celebertti date back to the civil unrest in Nicaragua in 2018, during which anti-government protests erupted over social security reforms. The government’s response to the demonstrations resulted in numerous fatalities, with human rights organizations estimating hundreds of deaths. The authorities have labeled the protests as acts of “terrorism” and an “attempted coup,” implicating Celebertti in what they describe as a failed coup attempt.
According to the police statement, Celebertti allegedly utilized beauty pageants as political tools, financed by foreign entities, to advance her agenda. While Celebertti’s resignation has been accepted by the Miss Universe Organization, the organization has affirmed its commitment to transparency and integrity in its pageants.
Anne Jakrajutatip, the founder of JKN Global Group, which owns Miss Universe, expressed support for Celebertti, commending her courage and determination in the face of adversity. However, Celebertti and her family have encountered difficulties upon attempting to return to Nicaragua from Mexico, with her husband and son reportedly detained since November 27.
The situation remains fluid, with Celebertti remaining in Mexico and neither she nor the Nicaraguan government responding to requests for comment from CNN.