The Miss Cameroon Organizing Committee (COMICA) is at the center of a controversy following the dethronement of Miss Cameroon 2025, Josiane Harangada Golonga, for "serious and repeated breaches of contractual obligations". This decision, announced on February 25, 2026, highlights the ongoing tensions between the winners and the organization, particularly regarding COMICA's code of conduct.
Legal experts and human rights advocates had already expressed concerns about this code, deeming it "liberticidal and potentially illegal". They criticize a lack of clarity in the terms, the absence of guarantees regarding the informed consent of the participants, and disproportionate sanctions in the event of non-compliance with the obligations. The code imposes logistical responsibilities on the winners regarding accommodation and travel, and gives COMICA extensive rights over the image of the Misses, raising concerns about potential situations of exploitation.
The grievances against Josiane Harangada Golonga include unjustified absences from official events, disrespectful comments towards the institution, the unilateral termination of her activities related to her mandate, and the use of a personal manager, in violation of contractual clauses. COMICA claims to have tried to engage in dialogue with the Miss, but she allegedly remained silent. As a result, the committee is withdrawing all rights and benefits related to her title, and the first runner-up, Audrey Moutongo, is called upon to act as interim.
Josiane Golonga disputes these accusations and demands payment of her unpaid salaries for December 2025 and January 2026, as well as the return of her company car. She denounces "harassment" by COMICA and has filed a legal notice to assert her rights. This case revives criticism of the management of the Miss Cameroon competition, which is regularly shaken by scandals and accusations of malpractice. In 2017, Julie Cheugueu Nguimfack, Miss Cameroon 2016, was also dethroned for "indiscipline".
The dethronement of Miss Cameroon 2025 highlights the need for a review of COMICA's code of conduct and the establishment of an independent body to oversee respect for the rights of the candidates. The event raises questions about the balance of power between the organization and the beauty queens, and about the protection of the latter against possible abuses. The credibility of the Miss Cameroon competition is at stake, and reform seems essential to guarantee fairness and transparency in future editions.
