A Thai beauty queen has had to renounce her crown after her her comments about the execution of political activist caused a social media storm.

Referring to the “Red Shirts” opposition protesters in a post on Facebook a few months ago, 22-year old Weluree Ditsayabut said:

“I am so angry at all these evil activists. They should be executed

“Thailand is contaminated by people like you who want to overthrow the monarchy… You’re wicked – you won’t die peacefully in your beds.”

Many on social media commented that Weluree was unfit to represent Thailand and that her comments were at odds with the aim of world peace that beauty pageants traditionally support. Others took to more personal insults and called her “too fat” to be a beauty queen.

Returning her crown, Weluree broke down in tears and said:

“I felt under pressure. I tried to improve myself but what I could not stand was to see my mother stressed,” Miss Weluree told reporters.

“I have decided to sacrifice my status as Miss Universe Thailand.”