Miss Universe Kenya terminates national director Kevin Bellwood’s tenure amid controversy

Miss Universe Kenya has confirmed the termination of National Pageant Director Kevin Bellwood’s tenure, weeks after he was placed on administrative leave over allegations concerning his conduct.

In a statement, the organisation said Bellwood was placed on administrative leave effective July 12, 2026, nearly two weeks before the Miss Universe Kenya Grand Finale held on July 25.

The development confirms that management was aware of concerns surrounding Bellwood before the national competition concluded.

Miss Universe Kenya said the allegations had circulated on social media but that it had not received direct submissions or formal evidence to substantiate the claims.

The organisation has now confirmed that Bellwood and management mutually agreed to terminate his role as National Pageant Director.

“We trust this provides clarity and brings closure to the matter as we move forward,” the organisation said.

His departure comes shortly after the organisation crowned Jean Ojiro as Miss Universe Kenya 2026 at the July 25 Grand Finale in Nairobi.

The organisation has also responded to questions surrounding the judging process that produced Ojiro as the winner.

Ojiro emerged from a field of more than 500 contestants to secure the national title and will represent Kenya at the international Miss Universe competition later this year.

Miss Universe Kenya said measures were put in place to separate contestants’ preparation from the final judging process.

According to the organisation, panellists and coaches who worked directly with contestants during boot camps and casting rounds did not take part in judging the Grand Finale.

It said the final scores were determined by an independent panel comprising professionals with experience in pageantry, brand management, Kenya’s creative industry, global talent management and the international Miss Universe platform.

The organisation said the arrangement was intended to ensure a “fair, rigorous and impartial selection” of Kenya’s representative.

Ojiro will now represent Kenya at the 75th Miss Universe competition, scheduled for November 24, 2026, at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Miss Universe Organisation has described the event as its 75th Anniversary Celebration.

The newly crowned Kenyan queen has identified the fight against femicide and gender-based violence as a key part of her advocacy.

Miss Universe Kenya said it remains committed to transparency and accountability as it prepares Ojiro for the international competition.