Following the unexpected dethronement of Déborah Djema as Miss Universe DRC 2025, the organizing committee has publicly addressed the controversy in a press briefing, shedding light on the series of events that led to their decision.
According to the committee, immediately after her coronation, Djema was required to sign the official Miss Universe DRC contract, a standard procedure for any titleholder. However, she reportedly refused to sign the document. One of the key points of disagreement was financial: Djema allegedly demanded a 50% share of generated revenues, a figure significantly higher than the standard 30% typically allocated.
Faced with what they described as uncooperative and unprofessional conduct, the committee stated they had no option but to protect the license, the sponsors, and the overall image of the country. They emphasized that a titleholder must exemplify humility, discipline, and respect—qualities they believe Djema failed to demonstrate.
This statement comes in the wake of rising public interest surrounding her dethronement, and it seeks to clarify the organization’s position while restoring transparency to the selection process and preserving the integrity of the Miss Universe DRC brand.