MGI terminates title of Cambodia's Pich Votey Saravody over 'defamatory' public statements against organization
The Miss Grand International Organization has revoked the title of Cambodia's Pich Votey Saravody, formerly the 5th runner-up of MGI 2022, over "serious violation of the organization's code of ethics."
"Miss Grand International Organization hereby officially announces that, effective immediately, Ms. Pich Votey Saravody, formerly the 5th Runner-Up of Miss Grand International 2022, is no longer entitled to hold or claim any status, rights, or affiliation related to the said title in any form or capacity," the organization said in a statement posted on their social media accounts.
According to MGI, Saravody allegedly disseminated false information and made defamatory public statements against the organization. These "unacceptable" pronouncements, according to the organization, caused "significant harm" to its reputation, image, and credibility.
"Ms. Saravody is strictly prohibited from making any reference, direct or indirect, to her former title or association with Miss Grand International," MGI said.
It also ordered Saravody to remove all photos, videos, or any media of her featuring the MGI crown, sash, logo, and other titleholders and affiliated artists. They gave her two days from Aug. 3 to take down related content, otherwise the beauty queen would face legal action.
'I cannot remain silent'
Saravody's termination came after MGI president Nawat Itsaragrisil commented on the border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand on July 30.
In his speech during the Inspire U to the Universe Round 1, Nawat condemned Cambodia's leaders, including Prime Minister Hun Sen, president Hun Manet, and Samdech Kittipritbandit Bun Rany Hun Sen.
"You are murderers of the world. I want every Thai person, from now on, to reject everything associated with these three leaders," the MGI president said in Thai, as translated by Google.
Saravody slammed Nawat's remarks, saying he had "no right to speak with such disrespect" toward Cambodia's leaders.
"In the past, I chose not to respond—not because I was afraid, but because I believe in the values that define us as Khmer people: dignity and respect," she began.
"When you insult me personally, I remain silent. Not because I lack courage, but because I carry myself with the manners, ethics, and education that reflect the character of a Khmer woman."
She continued, "When you cross the line by attacking and condemning the leadership of my country, I cannot remain silent."
The beauty queen went on to say she rejected the "contempt and hostility" shown by Nawat towards Cambodia's leaders.
Saravody is an actor and model born in Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia. She was crowned fifth runner-up at Miss Grand International 2022 at the Sentul International Convention Center in Bogor, West Java, Indonesia, alongside Isabella Menin of Brazil as the titleholder.
