The unfolding drama between Dabilo Moses and the Miss Botswana Organization has captivated public attention, with both parties presenting conflicting narratives about her departure from the competition. Dabilo claimed to have “withdrawn,” while the organization insists she was “evicted” during the first bootcamp. Here are ten key contradictions that highlight the tensions in this saga:
1. Withdrawal vs. Eviction
Dabilo’s Claim: She stated on social media that she had “withdrawn” from Miss Botswana 2025 due to misalignment with her values and brand integrity.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The organization categorically denies any withdrawals, asserting that Dabilo was among five contestants evicted on November 26, 2024, as part of a structured elimination process.
2. Timing of Departure
Dabilo’s Claim: Her post implies a proactive decision to leave the competition.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The press release confirms her elimination was part of the scheduled eviction process and occurred after assessments by judges based on performance, character, and merit.
3. Integrity Concerns
Dabilo’s Claim: She cited a lack of alignment with the competition’s principles, suggesting the environment did not uphold respect, creativity, or professionalism.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The organization insists it upholds the “highest standards of respect, fairness, and integrity” and provides avenues for contestants to report any misconduct.
4. Nature of the Process
Dabilo’s Claim: Her post suggests she left due to dissatisfaction with the competition’s structure and values.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The press release emphasizes that evictions followed a “structured and fair selection process” by an “esteemed panel of judges.”
5. Empowerment vs. Discontent
Dabilo’s Claim: She expressed concerns that the competition no longer served its empowering purpose for women.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The organization’s statement reiterates its commitment to fostering a “positive and empowering environment for every individual.”
6. Reporting Mechanisms
Dabilo’s Claim: Her withdrawal was framed as a stand against an environment that lacked integrity and professionalism, suggesting systemic issues.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The organization points out existing mechanisms for contestants to report abuse or misconduct by staff or fellow contestants, which were available throughout the process.
7. Communication of Values
Dabilo’s Claim: She emphasized her commitment to dignity, fairness, and respect, suggesting the competition fell short of these ideals.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The organization insists these very values are the cornerstone of its operations and were reflected in how all contestants were treated.
8. Representation of the Exit
Dabilo’s Claim: Her “withdrawal” announcement portrays a voluntary and principled decision.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The organization frames her exit as a standard elimination based on performance, not a personal choice.
9. Publicity and Perception
Dabilo’s Claim: Her post implies her departure could inspire “reflection and positive change” within the competition.
Miss Botswana’s Response: By denying her claims, the organization indirectly challenges her portrayal, suggesting the competition already meets high standards of fairness and integrity.
10. Final Sentiments
Dabilo’s Claim: She thanked supporters and indicated her withdrawal was a step toward aligning with her values.
Miss Botswana’s Response: The organization celebrated the efforts of all evicted contestants, including Dabilo, but firmly clarified that her journey ended through eviction, not withdrawal.
What’s Next?
The contrasting narratives highlight a clash of perspectives. Dabilo’s claims may resonate with those who feel pageantry should do more to empower women, while Miss Botswana’s firm denial underscores its confidence in the competition’s integrity.
As debates rage online, the focus remains on whether this controversy will prompt meaningful change or reinforce existing divides between participants and organizers in beauty pageants. For now, the crown chase continues, and Dabilo Moses remains a polarizing figure in the Miss Botswana 2025 journey.