Panama's Italy Mora withdraws from Miss Universe 2024 following disciplinary commission's evaluation
The Miss Universe Organization announced the withdrawal of Panama's representative, Italy Mora, from this year's competition following an evaluation by its disciplinary commission.
In a statement released last Friday, November 1, the organization said that Mora's withdrawal is the "most appropriate course of action" under the current circumstances.
"The Miss Universe organization regrets to announce the withdrawal of Panama’s candidate from the Miss Universe 2024 pageant. This decision has been taken after a thorough evaluation by our disciplinary commission," the statement began.
It added that Mora's case was carefully evaluated and charged while maintaining the integrity, dignity, and values of the pageant without disclosing further details on the decision.
"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 Miss Universe organization wishes to stress the importance of maintaining confidentiality and respect during this process. 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."
The MUO also encouraged the public to respect both parties for the outcome of their decisions.
"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."
'This event has been difficult to assimilate emotionally'
Meanwhile, Mora released a statement on her Instagram stories addressing the matter. According to her, she was informed that she should leave the competition on Nov. 1 due to "non-compliance with leaving the room."
"As I was preparing to attend the gala evening, the organization informed me of its decision that I should leave the competition. I was told that this measure was taken due to non-compliance with leaving the room, which I admit occurred to put on makeup and collect personal items," she wrote, as translated by online pageant magazine, Sash Factor.
While Mora considered the incident a "severe measure," she wished it could have been resolved with a dialogue or a warning.
She added, "This event has been difficult to assimilate emotionally, especially because of the time, effort, resources, and support of the people who made my preparation to represent my country possible."
Mora then gave a message to her fellow Panamanians: "I want to tell you that I have always proudly carried the commitment to represent Panama, and I deeply regret not being able to continue on this path towards the competition."
"With this statement, I also hope to clarify any false information that may be circulating about my departure and ask for respect and privacy as I go through this time."
Mora concluded, "I sincerely appreciate the support and affection received, and I reiterate my gratitude to all those who have trusted me during this process."
The Miss Universe's coronation night will be held on November 17 (PH time) in Arena CDMX, Mexico.
As of writing, 129 countries are vying for the coveted crown.
Chelsea Manalo is the country's representative who is aiming to take home the fifth crown after Catriona Gray (2018), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), Margie Moran (1973), and Gloria Diaz (1969).