The organiser of Miss Universe has told Sky News he cannot stand down from his position – despite allegations he was aggressive towards a contestant.
In a video that’s now gone viral, Nawat Itsaragrisil appeared to reprimand Miss Mexico after she had failed to post promotional content about Thailand – this year’s host country – online.
Reporters at the event claimed he had called Fatima Bosch a “dumbhead” – something he has firmly denied.
After the verbal altercation, she replied: “You are not respecting me as a woman.”
Nawat then called for security and Bosch walked out of the room. She was joined by other contestants in a show of solidarity, including the reigning Miss Universe.
The pageant’s president, Mexican businessman Raul Rocha, has described his behaviour as “public aggression” and “serious abuse”.
At a news conference, Nawat insisted he had used the word “damage” rather than “dumbhead” – and urged reporters to check footage of the incident online.
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However, he added: “This issue has dragged me down to this point. I understand and I apologise.”
When pressed further by journalists, Nawat appeared to start sobbing and said: “I am a human who can feel hurt.”
He has also apologised to contestants, adding: “If anyone (was) affected and not comfortable, it happened, I am so sorry. It’s passed. Okay? Are you happy?”
The controversy has overshadowed the Miss Universe contest, with several events to go until the grand final on 21 November.
