WASHINGTON — Raul Rocha Cantu, the President of Miss Universe, has responded to the unfolding drama involving Miss Universe Mexico and her treatment prior to the yearly pageant event.

The president sharply criticized Thai executive Nawat Itsaragrisil for his conduct toward Fatima Bosch, Miss Universe Mexico, during a pre-sash ceremony in Thailand. This clash sparked a protest walkout from fellow contestants in support of Bosch.

Itsaragrisil, who is both the president of Miss Grand International and the vice president for Asia and Oceania in the Miss Universe Organization, accused the 25-year-old Bosch of skipping a sponsored photoshoot.

The executive implied Bosch was reluctant to “promote Thailand” due to Rocha’s influence, given his position in the Miss Universe Organization. Itsaragrisil further commented, “If you follow the orders from your national director, you are a dumb head.”

The livestreamed Facebook video, which then went viral, showed the exchange that ended with Itsaragrisil calling for security to remove Bosch from the event after she spoke up. 

Bosch spoke with reporters shortly after, explaining that the Thai businessman’s behavior was “not respectful” and that he called her “dumb.”

“I’m here. I do everything OK. I don’t mess with anyone. I just try to be kind,” she said. “I think the world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice. No one can shut our voice, and no one will do that to me.”

The Miss Universe Organization issued a video statement over Itsaragrisil’s comments.

“I want to express my solidarity and support to all delegates representing the 122 countries at the Miss Universe Competition,” Rocha said in a video statement on Tuesday. “I will not allow the values of respect and dignity toward women to be violated. Unfortunately, Nawat has forgotten the true meaning of what it means to be a genuine host.”

“It means to demonstrate to all delegates of all countries that he, as a host, has the obligation to serve them, assist them and support them,” he continued. “And to ensure they have a unique life experience filled with kindness and courtesy.”

“I would like to make it clear, my great indignation toward Nawat for the public aggression he committed against Fatima Bosch,” Rocha said. “Whom he humiliated, insulted, and showed a lack of respect, in addition to the serious abuse of having called security to intimidate a defenseless woman. Trying to silence her and exclude her.”

Rocha reprimanded the Thai businessman further by adding, “Nawat, you need to stop.”

Itsaragrisil’s participation in this year’s pageant has been “restricted” and will be limited “as much as possible” or eliminated entirely, Rocha announced. Rocha also threatened legal and corporate action on Itsaragrisil as a result of his “malicious acts.”

Itsaragrisil has since apologized for his comments and said he has spoken with all the delegates in the room. 

“If anyone [was] feeling not good, if anyone [was] not comfortable… I do apologize for everyone,” he said.

Miss Universe Mexico issued a statement on Tuesday regarding the situation. 

“What happened today with @fatimaboschfdz in Thailand is unacceptable. No woman, under any circumstance, deserves to be insulted or humiliated,” the statement said. “Today and always, Mexico is with you, Fatima. Your strength, your class and your voice represent the best of our nation.”

Several Miss Universe contestants, including Miss Universe 2024, expressed support for Bosch. 

“Forever proud of my @fatimaboschfdz,” Victoria Kjær Theilvigs, Miss Universe 2024 and Danish model, said on Instagram. “Standing up for yourself is not always easy, but it is one of the most important acts of self-respect and strength you can show. It means knowing your worth, setting boundaries, and not allowing anyone or anything to undermine your voice or your value. Enough is enough, and our voices will be heard loud and clear!”

The 74th annual Miss Universe pageant will take place on Nov. 21 in Pak Kret, Thailand.