Southern Thailand court to hear Tak Bai massacre case

Narathiwat Provincial Court’s decision to hear a lawsuit against seven officials accused of murder and kidnapping during the 2004 Tak Bai massacre has been welcomed by activists.

Srisompob Jitpiromsri, director of Deep South Watch, described the court’s move as a significant step toward justice and peace in the troubled region. He made these comments at a talk in Pattani‘s Mueang district, held to discuss the court’s decision to accept the lawsuit. The incident in question led to the deaths of 85 people.

The event also included participation from Kannavee Suebsang, a list MP for the FAIR Party, along with other activists focused on the Deep South.

Kannavee remarked that justice is finally on the horizon, as the seven defendants will now have to face the consequences of their actions.

“The entire Thai society must acknowledge the atrocities that took place in the past, as they will shape the country’s image on the global stage.”

He emphasised that many hidden truths from the past two decades will now be revealed, advocating for a constructive dialogue to bring sustainable peace to Pattani.

“A constructive dialogue is needed to bring about sustainable peace in Pattani.”

Kannavee also called on the government to demonstrate a clear political will to address the ongoing issues in the southern provinces. He noted that although there are 13 MPs from the southern provinces within the ruling coalition, efforts to resolve the region’s problems have been insufficient.

The FAIR Party MP criticised previous administrations for their over-emphasis on security issues. He argued that the reason past attempts to bring peace and order to the restive region failed was due to viewing all challenges as security problems, reported Bangkok Post.

Witness examinations have been scheduled for September 12.

In related news, in a poignant gathering to commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the Black May protests, politicians, academics, activists, and relatives of those killed in the 1992 crackdown honoured the fallen democracy heroes.