[Ma'an] After a wave of criticism, the finale of the first-ever Miss Palestine pageant has been postponed indefinitely by the Palestinian Authority.
The Ramallah Governorate announced on Sunday, "According to the requirements of the public interest, we decided to freeze and delay indefinitely of the coronation of Miss Palestine 2009 that was scheduled to be held on 26/12/2009 in Ramallah."
The statement said the decision was made out of respect for the anniversary of the onset of the Israeli war on Gaza, which will be marked on 27 December.
But, the statement added, "We encourage such ideas that promote beauty that is committed to age-old Palestinian traditions and values."
The Miss Palestine pageant generated controversy when it was announced by the Trip Fashion Company earlier in December. Islamist politicians denounced the competition as not in keeping with traditional values.
The project originally had support from the Palestinian Authority. Officials from the ministries of Information and Culture were to help judge the contest, its organizers said. |