Miss Universe Press Release

Statement Regarding Recent Publication on Corporate Authority and Communication Channels

The Miss Universe Organization has operated as a joint venture between two equal fifty percent (50%) partners, MU East and MU West. This statement concerning institutional communication channels and corporate authority is issued by MU East. It responds to a publication dated 14 August 2026 by MU West purported to be made in the name of the Miss Universe Organization as a whole.

Structure. Under an agreement dated 1 September 2025 that governs the Organization's operations (the "Hemisphere Agreement"), the world's national franchises are allocated between two groups. MU East is responsible for the national licenses and franchise relationships in the Eastern Hemisphere territories; MU West for those in the Western Hemisphere. That division governs territorial operations only. Matters affecting the Organization as a whole - including corporate governance, banking and payment approvals - require the joint approval of both shareholders. Neither controls the Organization alone, and neither speaks for it alone.

Unapproved channel. Contrary to the 14 August 2026 statement, the recently-created website missuniverseorg.com has not been approved by both joint venture partners, whether as an official channel or as a means of verifying authorized representatives. It does not carry the authority of the Organization. Material published there reflects the position of one joint venture partner only (MU West). It should not be relied upon as a statement of the Organization's governance, authority or leadership.

Governance roles. The Hemisphere Agreement establishes an Executive Committee to facilitate the operation of the Miss Universe Organization. Mr. Monil Hathi is a duly appointed member of that Committee. The assertion in the 14 August 2026 statement that he holds no recognized governance role is simply not true, and we are deeply concerned and troubled that the signatories of the press release would knowingly make false representations in a press release.

Banking. The designated Chase Bank account of JKN Universe LLC ending 1798, which was used in connection with the 74^th Miss Universe Competition, remains operational and remains the only authorized account for payments due to the JKN Universe, LLC. No alternative banking arrangement was ever approved by both joint venture partners. Partners receiving payment instructions inconsistent with that arrangement are welcome to seek written confirmation from Mr. Hathi before acting on them (contact details below).

Ongoing Dispute. There is a dispute between the joint venturers under the Hemisphere Agreement concerning ownership, governance and shareholder rights. MU East's position is that this dispute ought to be resolved through the formal legal channels available under the governing agreements, not through press releases.