Resignation of Miss Nicaragua Director amid Conspiracy and Treason Allegations
Karen Celebertti, director of Miss Nicaragua, resigns amidst serious allegations of conspiracy and treason Following accusations by the national police of an attempted governmental overthrow, her departure raises questions about the pageant's involvement in political affairs
Miss Nicaragua pageant director, Karen Celebertti, resigned just one week after being charged with conspiracy and treason by the country's national police, alongside her husband and son. They were accused of involvement in a plot to overthrow the government. Celebertti, who has been in charge of Nicaragua's Miss Universe franchise for over 20 years, made the announcement on Tuesday through her Instagram account.
This shocking and controversial development unfolded shortly after Sheynnis Palacios made history by winning Miss Universe 2023 in El Salvador last month, becoming the first-ever representative from Nicaragua to secure the title.
Miss Universe 2023 was won by Miss Nicaragua. In an Instagram post, Celebertti expressed her dedication to uplifting Nicaragua and its people for over two decades. She highlighted the abundance of talent and beauty in every part of the country. She did not directly respond to any accusations made against her.
Pageant director Karen Celebertti (left) with Miss Universe owner Anne Jakrajutatip (right), who has voiced support for Celebertti following her resignation.
It's time for me to retire," she said. "I believe there will always be new opportunities for us. My husband and I come from hardworking, honorable families known for their dedication to the community... I have dedicated my entire life to serving my country to the best of my ability, with integrity and professionalism."
The charges against Celebertti are linked to the anti-government unrest in Nicaragua in 2018, during which protesters opposed changes to the country's social security system. Human rights groups believe that at least 355 people died when police cracked down on the protests. President Daniel Ortega's government labeled the demonstrations as "terrorism" and an "attempted coup." Recently, the police claimed that Celebertti was involved in the alleged "failed coup attempt." They also stated that they have evidence of Celebertti using her position to manipulate beauty pageants as "political traps and ambushes, funded by foreign agents."
Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios made history on November 18 when she was crowned Miss Universe 2023.
Hector Vivas/Getty Images
The Miss Universe Organization informed CNN in a statement that they have accepted Celeberttis' resignation and continue to support their partners in upholding the transparency and integrity of their pageant.
The statement continued, expressing the organization's desire for a peaceful resolution to the issues raised by Nicaragua, and the safety of everyone involved. The organization hopes for the country to support Sheynnis and Karen as they advocate for a future led by women, and to celebrate the culture and people of Nicaragua.
Anne Jakrajutatip, founder of JKN Global Group, which owns Miss Universe, showed her support for Celebertti on Instagram, commending her bravery, strength, and determination. She thanked Celebertti for believing in women's capabilities and for fearlessly fighting against all odds.
On November 23, Celebertti and her daughter were denied entry into their home country after returning from Mexico. According to CNN en Español, while Celebertti remains in Mexico, her husband and son have been held in Nicaragua since November 27.
Neither Celebertti nor the Nicaraguan government has responded to CNNs request for comment.
