By Suleman Chitera

Miss Malawi, Thandie Chisi, has expressed confidence in Malawi’s representative to the Miss World 2026 pageant, Ireen Navicha, saying the young beauty queen possesses the qualities needed to compete successfully on one of the world’s biggest beauty and advocacy stages.

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday morning, Chisi described Navicha as an intelligent, articulate and determined young woman whose passion for making a positive impact sets her apart.

According to Chisi, Navicha has demonstrated the confidence, discipline and commitment required to represent Malawi with distinction when she travels to Vietnam, where the prestigious Miss World competition is scheduled to take place on 5 September.Investigative Report: How Nir Ges Obtained a Diplomatic Passport in Malawi

“Ireen is young, very smart, well spoken and committed to bringing change,” Chisi said, expressing optimism that Malawi’s representative has what it takes to perform well among contestants from across the globe.

The reigning Miss Malawi noted that international pageants are no longer judged solely on physical beauty, but also on intelligence, communication skills, leadership and a contestant’s ability to champion meaningful social causes.

She said Navicha embodies these qualities and deserves encouragement from fellow Malawians as she prepares for one of the most significant moments of her career.President Mutharika Urged to Revoke Nir Ges’ Diplomatic Passport Amid Outgoing MCP Scandal

Chisi also used the opportunity to call on the public to refrain from attacking or ridiculing Navicha on social media platforms.

She said online bullying can have serious emotional and psychological consequences, particularly for individuals preparing for high-profile international events where confidence and mental focus are essential.

Instead of criticism, Chisi urged Malawians to rally behind their representative and provide the moral support needed to help her perform at her best.

“We should support her because she is carrying the Malawi flag. Negative comments and bullying can affect someone’s confidence, and this is the time she needs encouragement the most,” she emphasized.

Her remarks come amid increasing debate on social media following Navicha’s selection to represent Malawi at the Miss World competition, with some users questioning the choice while others have defended the decision and called for national unity.Diplomatic Passport Scandal in Malawi: Questions Surrounding Nir Gess and Abuse of State Privileges

Beauty pageants have increasingly become platforms for advocacy, leadership and community development, with contestants expected to lead social impact projects under the “Beauty With a Purpose” initiative, one of Miss World’s most recognized programmes.

Chisi believes Navicha has the potential to excel not only in the beauty competition itself but also in presenting Malawi’s culture, values and developmental aspirations to an international audience.

The Miss Malawi titleholder further dismissed speculation surrounding her absence during the official unveiling ceremony of Malawi’s Miss World representative.

She explained that she was unable to attend because she had official responsibilities at the Miss Malawi office, stressing that her absence should not be interpreted as a lack of support for Navicha.Investigative Report: Questions Continue to Follow Malawi’s Honorary Consul to Israel, Nir Gess

“I had official duties at the Miss Malawi office, which made it impossible for me to attend the unveiling ceremony,” she explained.

Chisi reiterated that she fully supports Navicha and wishes her every success as she prepares for the global pageant.

The endorsement from the reigning Miss Malawi is expected to strengthen confidence in Navicha’s campaign while reinforcing calls for unity among Malawians ahead of the international competition.

As preparations intensify for the Miss World 2026 pageant in Vietnam, supporters hope Navicha will use the platform to showcase Malawi’s beauty, culture, talent and resilience before a worldwide audience.

With only weeks remaining before the competition begins, attention is now shifting to how Malawi’s representative will prepare for the various segments of the contest, including interviews, cultural presentations and social impact initiatives.Diplomatic Passports for Sale? Malawi’s Honorary Consul Nir Gess and the Rot in the System

For many observers, Chisi’s message serves as a reminder that national representatives perform best when they enjoy the backing of the people they represent.

Rather than allowing criticism to overshadow the journey, supporters say the focus should remain on encouraging Navicha as she seeks to raise Malawi’s profile on the global stage and inspire young women across the country to pursue leadership, confidence and service through platforms such as Miss World.