Thailand protests: police dust off royal defamation law to charge pro-democracy activist leaders

In the first use of the draconian law for almost three years, 12 pro-democracy activists could now face 15 years in prison for criticising the Thai monarchy

Among them is human rights lawyer Anon Numpha, Panupong ‘Mike’ Jaadnok and prominent student leader Panusaya ‘Rung’ Sithijirawattanakul

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From left, Panupong Jadnok, Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul and Parit Chiwarak are among the 12 protest leaders to have received a police summons, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights. Photo: AP

Published: 1:28pm, 25 Nov 2020Updated: 9:23pm, 25 Nov 2020

Twelve pro-democracy protest leaders have been summoned by Thailand’s police to answer charges of royal defamation, the first use of the draconian law in almost three years, as Bangkok gears up for another major rally.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha last week gave the green light for authorities to lay lese majeste charges, which bar any criticism of the royal family, against demonstrators who could now face up to 15 years in prison.

Thailand has for months been rocked by youth-led protests demanding a new constitution, reform of the untouchable monarchy, and for Prayuth to resign.

Protesters have called for Prayuth Chan-o-cha, Thailand’s prime minister and former junta leader, to resign. Photo: EPA

Tensions in the Thai capital are rising – officers deployed water cannon and tear gas at a rally outside parliament last week, with 55 people injured and six shot in scuffles with royalists. The source of the gunfire is under investigation.

Anti-royal graffiti was also daubed around police headquarters in central Bangkok, and demonstrators threw paint at the compound.

Thailand has one of the harshest royal defamation laws in the world. It is routinely interpreted to include any criticism of the monarchy – including content posted or shared on social media.