Online Reporter
Gift Moyo, [email protected]
MISS Universe Zimbabwe has confirmed the dethronement of acclaimed filmmaker and beauty queen Malaika Mushandu as Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe 2026, citing misconduct and ineligibility.
In a statement released on August 22 and signed by Miss Universe Zimbabwe representative Josh Taderera, the organisation said Mushandu ceased to be the recognised titleholder on June 23.
The organisation said the decision followed consideration of matters relating to misconduct and ineligibility, including failure to meet the standards, requirements and obligations set by the organisation and the international Miss Cosmo Organisation.
“The organisation hereby confirms, unequivocally, that Ms Malaika Mushandu was dethroned as Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe 2026 with effect from 23 June 2026,” said the organisation.
It said the decision was not taken lightly and was necessary to safeguard the integrity and credibility of the title.
“The title of Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe carries significant responsibilities and is subject to defined standards of conduct, eligibility, representation and compliance with the requirements of the international organisation,” said the organisation.
The organisation further stated that Mushandu no longer had authority to represent herself as Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe 2026 or represent the organisation in that capacity.
It also dismissed claims that she remained the reigning titleholder.
“The organisation is aware of various discussions and representations concerning this matter. It is therefore placed on public record that any representation suggesting that Ms Mushandu continues to hold the title of Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe 2026 is incorrect,” said the organisation.
However, the organisation did not disclose the specific conduct or eligibility issues that led to Mushandu’s dethronement.
Following the statement, social media was awash with speculation over the circumstances surrounding Mushandu’s dethronement.
Among the claims circulating online are allegations of a fallout between Mushandu and Miss Universe Zimbabwe chief executive officer Tendai Hunda over an alleged financial backer linked to the Miss Universe Zimbabwe pageant held at the Harare Hippodrome on June 6.
The allegations have not been independently verified, while the organisation has not linked Mushandu’s dethronement to the claims circulating on social media.
Mushandu is yet to issue a statement on the matter.
The organisation said its statement was issued to clarify her status and was not intended to humiliate or prejudice her.
“This statement has not been issued for the purpose of humiliating, embarrassing or unnecessarily prejudicing Ms Mushandu. It is issued to clarify the accurate status quo regarding the Miss Cosmo Zimbabwe titleholder,” it said.
