Title: Miss Universe Contest Causes Political Stir in Nicaragua
In the aftermath of a Nicaraguan lady being bestowed the title of Miss Universe, the head of the local beauty pageant section has been accused of "treason" and "conspiracy" by local police. Karen Celebertti, the director of Miss Nicaragua, along with her son and husband, are allegedly linked to the 2018 coup attempt's "terrorist acts," as stated by the Nicaraguan police last Friday.
The police statement referenced the violent suppression of protests against Daniel Ortega's rule at the time. The newly crowned Miss Universe, Sheynnis Palacios, participated in these 2018 demonstrations.
Jubilation on Nicaraguan Streets
Upon Palacios' coronation as Miss Universe, widespread celebrations broke out in Nicaraguan streets. These gatherings marked the largest public events in the country since the authorities banned all opposition demonstrations five years prior.
According to Nicaraguan media reports, Celebertti's husband and son were subsequently arrested. However, Celebertti's whereabouts remain unclear. Nicaraguan writer Gioconda Belli, living in exile in Spain, reported a week ago that the Nicaraguan authorities had prohibited Celebertti from re-entering her homeland. The Miss Universe final had been held in El Salvador in Central America.
Controversial Participation and Global Impact
Celebertti's involvement in the 2018 Miss Universe contest may have led to unexpected political repercussions, given her avowed support for the anti-Ortega protests. The Miss Universe event, held in Central America, inadvertently emerged as a stage for "political ambushes," as the Nicaraguan authorities claim, with foreign agents financing the activities and Miss Nicaragua Director Celebertti at the center of the controversy.
Critics accuse Ortega, in power without interruption since 2007, of advancing a repressive political style over the years. Ortega had previously governed between 1979 and 1990, after the left-wing Sandinista guerrillas, led by him, toppled dictator Anastasio Somoza.
As for the current status of Karen Celebertti following accusations of treason and conspiracy, further investigation is required by searching for specific news articles or official announcements from Nicaraguan authorities.
