Mongkol “Busbas” Thirakot is currently being held in Chiang Rai Central Prison. (Photo: iLaw)
An appeal court on Wednesday upheld the conviction of a Chiang Rai clothing vendor in a third lese-majeste case, escalating his total prison time for the offences to an unprecedented 54 years and 6 months, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR). Mongkol “Busbas” Thirakot had previously been sentenced in two other lese-majeste cases to an aggregate of 50 years in prison, which was also upheld on appeal.
“This is by far the longest prison sentence given to a Section 112 defendant, based on available information,” TLHR stated on Wednesday, referencing the section of the Criminal Code that pertains to royal defamation.
In the latest case, the Court of Appeal Region 5 confirmed the earlier conviction by the Chiang Rai Provincial Court, finding Mongkol guilty of two counts of lese-majeste and one count of trespassing, imposing a sentence of 4 years and 6 months. Mongkol observed the ruling, read out in the Chiang Rai Provincial Court, via a video link from the Chiang Rai Central Prison, where he has been detained.
Earlier this year, in January, the Court of Appeal Region 5 had upheld the 28-year jail term which the lower court had passed against Mongkol. The initial ruling from the lower court had found him guilty of 14 counts of lese-majeste, each carrying a two-year jail term. Additionally, it found him guilty of a further 11 counts, each with a two-year jail term, bringing the total in the two cases to 50 years.
This lengthy sentence has surpassed that of another lese-majeste defendant, Anchan Preelert, a former civil servant, who was ordered to serve 43 years and six months in prison.
Mongkol was apprehended in April 2021 after going on a hunger strike in Chiang Rai to advocate for bail rights for political prisoners in similar cases.
The court heard that between March 2 and 11, 2021, Mongkol published 25 posts on Facebook that were alleged to be critical of the monarchy. Over those ten days, he shared several videos from foreign sources containing material deemed harmful to the monarchy. Police subsequently found that he made more damaging posts on April 8 and 9 of the same year.
Mongkol insisted he did not defame the monarchy but merely expressed his opposition to the King regarding political issues. Nonetheless, the court ruled it as defamation, citing the use of vulgar words.
Section 112 enforces a minimum sentence of 3 years and a maximum sentence of 15 years for any act that defames, insults, or threatens the King, Queen, Heir-apparent, or Regent.
According to data from TLHR as of July 31 of this year, 1,954 people have been prosecuted for political participation and expression since the beginning of the Free Youth protests in July 2020. At least 272 face lese-majeste charges under Section 112 and 152 have been charged with sedition under Section 116.
54 years for some Facebook posts? That’s insane! How is this even justifiable?
It’s about upholding the dignity of the monarchy. These laws have been around for a long time.
Dignity or not, there should be a limit to punishment. This is a clear violation of human rights.
Totally agree, Emily. 54 years is ridiculous. This isn’t the medieval era where you get punished for speaking out.
Unfortunately, some countries still hold on to such draconian laws. It’s disheartening to see this in the 21st century.
Jen, you’re right. People’s lives shouldn’t be destroyed over a Facebook post. This needs international intervention.
Many people in Thailand support these laws. It’s about our culture and respect for the monarchy.
Thitirat, supporting culture doesn’t mean endorsing harsh and cruel punishments. Reform is necessary.
Paul, I understand where you’re coming from, but change needs to come from within and with respect to our traditions.
Exactly, respect is earned, not forced with such severe penalties. This kind of sentencing doesn’t make sense.
Who are you lecturing Thais about their culture? And which is the paradise country you are giving your advice from. Must be a country I’ve never heard of because I can’t think of a Western country that is currently without quite severe problems at home. Many of which incidentally do have roots in cultural disintegration by all means. Maybe you tackle those before lecturing others. And leave things Thai to people Thai. The colonial days are over, you know.
Cultural respect doesn’t have to mean draconian punishments though. There needs to be a balance.
What about freedom of speech? People should be free to express their opinions!
Totally agree with you. Free speech is a fundamental human right. This is a gross violation.
Does anyone know if international organizations are intervening in this case?
Yes, several human rights organizations have called out Thailand for its use of lese-majeste laws, but effective intervention is a complex process.
So, what about the real criminals? Why aren’t they getting such long sentences?
Right? It seems like those in power are just using these laws to silence critics instead of addressing real crimes.
The sheer length of the sentence is shocking. This should be a global concern!
Sadly, it’s not just Thailand. Many countries use similar laws to oppress their people.
I hope Mongkol gets some form of justice eventually. The international community needs to step up.
It’s absolutely frightening to think people can be jailed for decades over social media posts. What about the freedom to criticize?
Laura, in many countries, criticizing the monarchy or government can get you thrown into prison. It’s about control.
John, it’s a sad state of affairs. And the worst part is, the ordinary citizen suffers while those in power remain unchecked.
This really sheds light on the state of justice in Thailand. How can reforms be initiated?
I used to think Thailand was a modern country, but these laws are archaic.
Every country has its issues, Sam. But, yes, this is definitely a wake-up call.
Imagine being stuck in a cell for 54 years over Facebook! This is madness!
Global awareness is the key. This kind of injustice shouldn’t go unnoticed.
Absolutely. International pressure can sometimes lead to change.
Something needs to change. This punishment is beyond severe. What about human rights?
Human rights are conveniently ignored when it comes to maintaining authoritarian control.
Hope more people speak out against this. Silence is compliance.
Why isn’t this topic getting more coverage? This should be on the front page of every news outlet.
Oppressive regimes always seek to silence dissent, it’s their modus operandi. Stand up for freedom!