Esther Imonmion
Several Miss Universe contestants walked out of a pre-event ceremony in Thailand on Tuesday, November 4, after an organiser publicly berated Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, in front of her peers.
A Thursday report says the confrontation occurred during a pre-pageant event when Miss Universe Thailand director, Nawat Itsaragrisil, accused Ms Bosch of failing to post promotional content. The incident, live-streamed and now viral, showed Mr Nawat calling security after the Mexican contestant objected. He also threatened to disqualify any Miss Universe contestants who supported her.
Ms Bosch left the room, joined by several Miss Universe contestants, including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark, who said, “This is about women’s rights. To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful. That’s why I’m taking my coat and walking out.”
Witnesses said most Miss Universe contestants stood in solidarity with Ms Bosch despite Mr Nawat’s demand that those wishing to continue the contest sit down. The video, widely circulated online, has drawn global criticism of the Thai official’s conduct.
Following the uproar, the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) condemned Mr Nawat’s behaviour, describing it as “malicious” and “humiliating.” MUO President Raul Rocha said the Thai organiser had “forgotten the true meaning of being a genuine host” and “committed the serious abuse of calling security to intimidate a defenceless woman.”
Rocha said the MUO had deployed international executives to take over the event’s management and would restrict or eliminate Mr Nawat’s involvement. He also confirmed that legal action was being considered.
Mr Nawat later issued a public apology, saying, “If anyone feels bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologise to everyone, especially to the girls who were present, around 75 of them.” He denied calling Ms Bosch “dumb,” claiming his words were misunderstood and that he meant she had caused “damage.”
Speaking to reporters after the walkout, Ms Bosch said Mr Nawat was “not respectful” and that she was determined to stand her ground. “I just want to let my country know I’m not afraid to make my voice heard. We’re in the 21st century. I’m not a doll to be made up, styled, and changed,” she said.
Despite the controversy, Miss Universe contestants continued with official activities in Bangkok, attending a welcome event on Wednesday, November 5. The winner of the 2025 Miss Universe pageant will be crowned on November 21.