Activist Parit Chiwarak sentenced to two years for lese majeste

The criminal court of Thailand sentenced political activist Parit Chiwarak, also known as Penguin, to three years in prison for lese majeste, later reduced to two years without suspension. An arrest warrant has been issued for him to serve the sentence within a 10-year statute of limitations.

The verdict was delivered today, July 31, at 10am at Criminal Court Room 905 on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok. Parit, a prominent leader of the Ratsadon group, faced charges under Section 112 of the Criminal Code and the Computer Crimes Act of 2007.

The prosecutor accused Parit of using his Facebook account to post defamatory and threatening messages towards the monarchy between late July and early August 2021.

Despite denying the charges and being granted bail, Parit failed to appear in court on the scheduled date of June 25, prompting the court to issue an arrest warrant. He was absent again during today’s hearing, with only his lawyer present. Consequently, the court proceeded to deliver the judgement in his absence.

The court examined testimonies and evidence from both sides, finding the prosecution’s witnesses consistent and credible. Parit’s claim that someone else might have accessed his Facebook account was deemed unconvincing, as he did not remove the incriminating posts.

The court noted that one of his posts from July 28, which encouraged wearing black, was interpreted as a symbolic act of mourning. Parit’s defence that it was meant to call for institutional reform was not accepted.

The court ruled that Parit was guilty of lese majeste under Section 112 of the Criminal Code and the Computer Crimes Act. Considering his partial cooperation, the court reduced the initial three-year sentence to two years without suspension. An arrest warrant has been issued for Parit to serve his sentence within the 10-year statute of limitations.

Parit Chiwarak, known for his activism and leadership within the Ratsadon group, has been a prominent figure in Thailand’s pro-democracy movement. His social media activities have repeatedly brought him into conflict with authorities, particularly regarding his criticism of the monarchy.

The case has drawn significant attention both domestically and internationally, highlighting the ongoing tensions between Thailand’s monarchy and pro-democracy activists. The use of Section 112, which carries severe penalties for defaming the monarchy, has been a contentious issue, with human rights organisations calling for its reform or abolition, reported KhaoSod.