A Thai court has recently convicted and sentenced political activist Patsaravalee Tanakitvibulpon to a two-year suspended jail term for defaming the monarchy. Patsaravalee, who is popularly known as 'Mind,' was found guilty under Article 112 of Thailand's criminal code, which criminalizes any perceived criticism of the royal institution.
While Patsaravalee pleaded not guilty to the offense, she was officially sentenced to three years in prison, with the term reduced to a two-year suspended sentence due to her cooperation. The charges stemmed from a speech she delivered at a rally in Bangkok in March 2021. Notably, she was acquitted of violating an emergency decree on public gatherings as she was not an organizer of the event.
Prior to entering the courtroom, a small group of supporters handed flowers to the 28-year-old activist. Speaking to reporters, Patsaravalee expressed confidence in the content of her speech, stating that it was polite and humble. She maintained that her intention was not defamation but rather a necessary discussion around the monarchy and Thai politics, which had become prominent issues.
Patsaravalee was part of a new generation of leaders who played a significant role in the series of unprecedented protests that erupted in Thailand in 2020. These demonstrations called for reforms within the monarchy, challenging a longstanding tradition of deep reverence towards the institution. The lese majeste law, which imposes harsh penalties for criticism of the monarchy, has traditionally protected it. Offenders can face up to 15 years in jail per offense.
However, since the passing of King Bhumibol in 2016 and the ascension of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, there has been an increasing demand for a more open and liberal atmosphere for discussions about the monarchy. This case marks another chapter in the ongoing debate on the balance between protecting the monarchy and allowing for freedom of expression.
Coinciding with Patsaravalee's conviction, Thailand's Constitutional Court is set to deliver its verdict on a case involving the Move Forward party. The party, which won the majority of seats in the 2020 election, campaigned for the amendment of Article 112. The accusation is that their platform sought to undermine the constitutional monarchy. A ruling against the party could result in a cessation of their reform efforts or even lead to dissolution.
As Thailand navigates these legal and political challenges, the conversation surrounding the monarchy and its role in society continues to be a source of controversy and debate. The outcomes of these cases are likely to shape the landscape of free expression in the country and shed light on the evolving relationship between the people and the monarchy.
