Over 120 women from around the globe have converged in Thailand, competing for the coveted Miss Universe title, one of the ‘big four’ global beauty pageants.
The pre-event buzz, however, has been overshadowed by the behind-the-scenes drama involving the contestants and their Thai hosts, sparking a feminist debate that caught the attention of Mexico’s president.
On Tuesday, Mexican contestant Fatima Bosch made a striking exit — dressed in an evening gown and high heels — from a meeting where she faced criticism from Miss Universe host Nawat Itsaragrisil.
During a livestream, Nawat seemed to target Miss Mexico, allegedly calling her a ‘dumbhead’ over a dispute about her not posting promotional content on social media.
He has since refuted using the term.
After Nawat asked for security, Bosch walked out, accompanied by Miss Iraq, adorned in a jeweled floor-length robe.
“What your director did is disrespectful: he called me dumb,” Bosch told reporters. “The world must see this because we are strong women, and this platform is for our voice.”
Other contestants appeared to support Bosch until Nawat warned those wishing to continue should “sit down.”
The incident prompted a response from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch on Wednesday as an “example of how women should speak out” against aggression.
“In public settings, I believe women are most beautiful when we speak up,” she said. “My recognition goes to this young woman.”
Mexico’s embassy in Thailand stated on Facebook it’s in “constant contact” with Bosch and her family but offered no further comment.
Nawat, on the other hand, faced public criticism from the Miss Universe Organization.
“I will not allow disrespect and indignity towards women,” stated President Raul Rocha from the podium.
“Unfortunately, Nawat has forgotten the essence of being a true host,” he continued, accusing him of “public aggression” and limiting his role in the pageant.
Later, Nawat appeared at a press conference in a tuxedo, tearfully dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief, claiming he felt “betrayed.”
Despite this, he played a prominent role in the competition’s opening ceremony, standing before the smiling contestants and offering an apology.
“I am human,” he admitted. “The pressure is immense.”
“I never meant to harm anyone as I respect you all. I sincerely apologize.”
This isn’t the first time the mogul — also the president of Thailand-based Miss Grand International (MGI) — has been embroiled in a telenovela-worthy dispute.
Last year, MGI contestants were upset after being seated on plastic chairs and eating peanuts on a Cambodian tourist boat instead of the anticipated luxury river cruise.
Even before the clash with Miss Mexico, this year’s Miss Universe pageant was mired in controversy.
Thai media reported that police investigated participants for allegedly filming with pillows branded with an online casino’s name at their hotel, violating the country’s strict gambling laws.
If no further incidents occur, the pageant final is scheduled for November 21 in Nonthaburi province.
