Convicts charged with lese majeste, as well as demonstrators, receive royal amnesty
The Corrections Department announced on Wednesday that authorities began releasing prisoners who qualified for a royal pardon. Among those freed were activists linked to the "Three-Finger Movement" and individuals convicted under Section 112 of the Criminal Code, as well as prisoners who had been jailed for violating the lese-majeste law and other related legal codes during street protests.
One of the released prisoners was Thanayut Na Ayutthaya, also known as "Book", a hip-hop artist. Thanayut entered prison with a newborn after being sentenced for commenting on a Facebook post while pregnant. He spent 458 days, just over 15 months, behind bars. Thanayut was convicted of possessing explosives during the "Thalu Gas" movement protests and sentenced to two years and six months.
Another released prisoner was Kanun Poomphuengphut, who had been detained since March 25, 2024, for a speech about the monarchy. Kanun served a total of 521 days in prison.
Anchan Preelert, a former civil servant sentenced to 43 years and six months in prison, was among the first to be released. She served eight years, four months, and 19 days in the Central Women's Correctional Institution in Bangkok.
Thanaporn, another Section 112 convict, was discharged from Thonburi Women's Correctional Institution on Wednesday. The royal pardon for these prisoners was granted by the King.
These releases mark a significant step towards addressing the ongoing human rights concerns in Thailand, where activists and protesters have been detained and charged under controversial laws, including the lese-majeste law, which carries severe penalties for criticising the monarchy.
The release of these prisoners is a positive development and a sign of hope for those still imprisoned for their political beliefs. The Thai government is urged to continue this trend and work towards a more open and democratic society, where freedom of speech and peaceful protest are protected and respected.
