Thai Appeals Court Confirms Two-Year Sentence for Progressive Lawmaker

An appeals court in Thailand has upheld a two-year prison sentence for lawmaker Chonthicha Jangrew from the progressive People’s Party, following a conviction for defaming the monarchy during a speech made four years ago. The ruling, announced on March 12, 2024, underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding political expression in the country, particularly regarding the monarchy.

The court in Bangkok granted Jangrew bail set at 150,000 baht (approximately $4,600), allowing her to remain free while she prepares to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court. Had she been denied bail, she would have been immediately removed from her position as an elected Member of Parliament.

Jangrew’s case highlights the enduring conservatism within Thailand’s political landscape, even as the opposition People’s Party has emerged as the largest political group in Parliament following recent elections. The political establishment remains particularly sensitive to any perceived threats to the monarchy, a situation that has been exacerbated by recent rulings against political activists.

The lawmaker was convicted for statements made during a political rally in 2021, where she called for the release of political prisoners. She alleged that the government, then led by Prayuth Chan-ocha, had altered laws to expand the powers of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. Initially sentenced to three years in prison, her term was reduced to two years due to her cooperation with the court.

Criticism of the monarchy is considered taboo in Thailand, with insults or defamation against royal family members punishable by up to 15 years in prison under Article 112. Jangrew stated that her case is crucial in demonstrating how the law suppresses freedom of opinion, a sentiment echoed by many activists.

This ruling is not the only legal challenge faced by the 32-year-old lawmaker. Earlier in March 2024, she received a separate sentence of two years and eight months in prison for an online post in 2020 related to royal privileges. Before her election to Parliament in 2023, Jangrew was a prominent figure in the youth-led pro-democracy movement, advocating for reforms that included changes to the lese majeste law.

The Move Forward Party, which Jangrew represented in the 2023 elections, won the most votes but ultimately failed to form a government. The party was later disbanded after being found to have violated the constitution by proposing amendments to the lese majeste law, subsequently regrouping as the People’s Party.

Since the resurgence of student-led pro-democracy protests beginning in 2020, demonstrators have called for significant reforms to the lese majeste law. Yet, many participants have faced prosecution under this statute. According to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, over 280 individuals, including numerous student activists, have been charged with violations of Article 112 since early 2020.

As the legal battles continue, Jangrew’s case remains a focal point for discussions on freedom of expression and human rights in Thailand, drawing attention from both domestic and international observers.