Since its creation, the Miss Cameroon competition has been plagued by controversies, with at least four beauty queens dethroned. Behind the official statements of the Miss Cameroon Organizing Committee (COMICA), former winners denounce a system they describe as "pure predation".
The official reasons for the dethronements vary, but a disturbing pattern emerges: a newly elected Miss faces demands she deems unacceptable. Refusal to comply with certain directives, a desire for independence, or defending her integrity are said to be the real reasons, according to collected testimonies.
The most recent case is that of Josiane Golonga, Miss Cameroon 2025, who was arrested for attempting to recover her personal belongings with a bailiff. Other Misses have suffered the same fate, forming a list too long to be considered coincidental.
Testimonials from former winners reveal a system of psychological pressure, excessive demands, abusive contractual clauses, and close monitoring. COMICA is said to exert absolute control over the young women wearing the crown, with some reporting lasting trauma. Horror stories are carefully hidden, for fear of legal or professional reprisals.
A code of conduct is denounced by lawyers as an instrument of mass destruction against those who refuse to submit. This code would impose obligations on candidates without guaranteeing informed consent, and would provide for disproportionate sanctions, threatening their freedom of expression.
Faced with these repeated scandals, voices are rising to demand a thorough reform of the Miss Cameroon system. The creation of an independent supervisory body and a complete revision of the statutes are considered essential to protect future candidates.
Founded in 2002, COMICA is headed by Ingrid Solange Amougou. The organization aims to promote the beauty, culture, and social engagement of young Cameroonian women. However, recent controversies cast a shadow over its mission.
As social networks ignite and testimonies accumulate, the future of the Miss Cameroon competition is at stake. Will COMICA have to be held accountable to protect the dreams of young Cameroonian women? Recently, COMICA withdrew the Miss Cameroon crown from Josiane Harangada Golonga.
