Thai Activist Granted Bail After Lese Majeste Conviction

THE CRIMINAL Court on Ratchadapisek road on Aug. 31 granted bail to Ms. Tantawan Tuatulanon, or Tawan, former leader of the Thalu Wang activist group, after sentencing her to two years in jail, without suspension, for violating the lese majeste law, or Section 112 of the Criminal Code, Section 14 of the Computer Crimes Act, resisting arrest, and failing to comply with official order, Naewna newspaper said this evening (Aug. 31). The case stems from an incident in March 2022, when Tawan livstreamed on Facebook from the sidewalk on Ratchadamnoen Nok road, opposite the United Nations office, shortly before a royal motorcade passed by. The defendant pleaded not guilty. Upon arriving at the court today, Tawan told reporters that she was ready to go through the judicial process even though she was disillusioned with the country’s justice system and uncertain about the future of the nation. She pointed out that she is still in the country and would not leave with her lawyer having prepared bail for the verdict of the Court of First Instance. She admitted to feeling nervous, but confirmed that she has prepared herself mentally, accepting whatever the outcome. However, she upheld her stance over the farmers’ protest that day as it had lingered for many days and she had previously participated in community protests and wanted those in power to pay attention to the people. Before allowing Tawan to be released on 100,000-baht bail, the court ruled that she had violated several laws including Section 112 of the Criminal Code, the most severe offence, and sentenced her to three years in jail and 900 baht fine for failing to comply with an official order. Due to mitigating circumstances presented by the defendant, the sentence was reduced by one-third to two-year imprisonment without suspension and 600 baht fine. The iPhone that was submitted as evidence was confiscated. Top and Front Page: Ms. Tantawan Tuatulanon, or Tawan. Photos – Naewna