Jailed activists request individual cells, access to books, ahead of exams

3 protest leaders currently behind bars have spoken with the Justice Minister to ask for a number of personal requests to be granted. Panupong Jadnok, Parit Chiwarak, and Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul, each met with Somsak Thepsutin, with Panupong calling for a separation between prisoners awaiting trial and those who’ve already been convicted. Both Panupong and Parit are being held at Bangkok Remand Prison. Panusaya, who is being detained at the Central Women’s Correctional Institution also requested an individual cell, but her request was turned down.

All 3 have requested access to books, ahead of impending exams. According to a Bangkok Post report, Panusaya told Somsak she’s prepared to suspend her higher education if it prevents her from carrying out her political activism. Parit echoed the request for books, asking for access to the works of left-wing author and historian, Jit Phumisak, and saying he’s concerned about missing his exams. Meanwhile, Noraset Nanongtoom from the Thai Lawyers for Human Rights Centre, says Parit has described living conditions at the jail at “tolerable”.

All 3 activists are being charged with sedition and incitement after participating in protests at Bangkok’s Thammasat University and Sanam Luang on September 19 and 20. Temporary release on bail has been denied for each of them.

SOURCE: Bangkok Post