Thailand Sentences Monarchy Critics to Prison

Written by Camilla Jessen

May.27 - 2024 9:16 AM CET

World
Photo: fototrips / Shutterstock.com
Photo: fototrips / Shutterstock.com
Thailand continues to enforce its strict lèse majesté laws, sentencing an opposition MP and a musician to prison for criticizing the monarchy.

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Thailand's lese majeste laws are among the strictest in the world.

Since 2020, more than 270 individuals have faced charges under these laws. Penalties for insulting the royal family can reach up to 15 years in prison.

The crackdown on dissent has intensified, with activists and public figures often targeted.

Recently, two prominent figures—a politician and a musician—have been sentenced to prison for actions deemed insulting to the monarchy.

Prominent Figures Sentenced

According to a report by Der Spiegel, Chonthicha Jangrew, an opposition Member of Parliament, has been sentenced to two years in prison.

The sentence stems from a speech she delivered three years ago during anti-government protests. Jangrew, who has consistently denied the allegations, was released on bail pending appeal.

Her political party has actively sought to amend the lese majeste laws, positioning itself at the center of a contentious legal and political battle.

Musician Chaiamorn Kaewwiboonpan has been sentenced to four years in prison for burning a portrait of King Maha Vajiralongkorn in 2021.

Despite admitting to the act, Kaewwiboonpan argued that it did not constitute a legal violation.