Miss Universe Thailand director sparks uproar after humiliating Miss Mexico. Image credit: Miss Universe Thailand/ Facebook.
(The Post News) – Following a dramatic argument in which a senior Thai official openly degraded Miss Mexico, several participants left a Miss Universe event.
In front of scores of competitors, Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil reprimanded Fatima Bosch at a pre-pageant ceremony, accusing her of failing to submit promotional content. When Bosch attempted to defend herself, Nawat threatened to disqualify everyone who backed her and demanded protection. Following Bosch out of the room, a number of competitors showed support by following her.
The live-streamed altercation swiftly went viral on the internet, inciting indignation. Nawat later issued an apology when the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) denounced his malicious actions. In the footage, contestants in their gowns and sashes could be seen yelling back at Nawat as he repeatedly warned Bosch to stop talking and raised his voice.
Nawat reacted angrily when other competitors stood up in favor of Bosch, saying, “If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down. The other girls will continue if you leave.” The majority of the women stood in spite of his admonition, and a few left the room.
Rocha stated, “I want to make it clear that Miss Universe is an empowerment platform for women to have their voices heard.”
Denmark’s current Miss Universe, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig, was one of those that left. As she left the event, she declared, “This is about women’s rights. It is extremely disrespectful to disparage another lady in public. I’m taking my coat and leaving because of this.”
The public’s response has been immediate, with many pageant fans applauding Bosch for sticking to her ground and denouncing Nawat’s actions.
“If someone feels bad, uneasy, or impacted, I sincerely apologize to everybody, particularly the 75 competitors who were present,” Nawat said in a social media video.
The Miss Universe competition is still going strong in spite of the controversy; on Wednesday, candidates attended a welcoming event in Bangkok. On November 21, there will be a spectacular finale where the next Miss Universe will be crowned.
About the Author
