Political activist Panupong “Mike Rayong” Jadnok, who has been grappling with a lese majeste charge for posting a controversial message about His Majesty the King last year, made a striking appearance in New Zealand on Thursday. It is anticipated that he will apply for political asylum and embark on a fresh chapter of his life. Eakapop Luara, known popularly as Tang Achiwa, is a former member of the red-shirt movement and a political refugee who previously fled to New Zealand to sidestep a Section 112 charge. In a heartfelt message on Facebook, Eakapop warmly welcomed Panupong, who had recently set foot in the country. “Welcome to a new land, a land of freedom with a welfare state that supports every life,” Eakapop declared with fervor. “Enjoy the beginning of your new life.”
It emerged on May 8 that the Criminal Court handed Panupong a four-year prison sentence for violating the lese majeste law and the Computer Crimes Act. However, this sentence was graciously reduced to three years owing to his cooperation during the witness examination phase.
Panupong’s conviction stemmed from an inflammatory Facebook post on Nov 8 of the previous year. The court ruled that the message was offensive to the monarchy and His Majesty the King and constituted a breach of the computer law. An arrest warrant was subsequently issued for him after he failed to show up in court on March 28 for his sentencing.
In a related development, Thai Lawyers for Human Rights divulged yesterday via the platform X that “Tee,” a Naresuan University postgraduate student, was convicted for distributing books containing protest speeches regarding Section 112 cases on Dec 30, 2021. The court pinpointed three incriminating messages within these books that were found to be in violation of Section 112, leading to a three-year jail sentence. This sentence, however, was reduced to two years due to Tee’s young age and owing to the fact that the books were only distributed to police officers.
The juxtaposition of these two cases casts a light on the intricacies of political dissent and freedom of expression in Thailand. Panupong’s daring move to New Zealand represents a beacon of hope for those ensnared by similar legal predicaments. Meanwhile, Tee’s reduced sentence signals a sliver of leniency but also underscores ongoing concerns about the application of Section 112.
For Panupong, the transition to New Zealand marks the start of a life unburdened by the shadows of past convictions. The country’s reputation as a haven for political refugees like him stands as a testament to its commitment to human rights and freedom. As he embarks on this new journey, the support from fellow expatriates like Eakapop will likely play a crucial role in his acclimatization.
Moreover, this narrative of asylum-seeking activists highlights the broader geopolitical discourse on freedom of speech and justice. It provokes contemplation on the efficacy and morality of laws like Section 112, raising pertinent questions about the balance between national security and individual liberties. These stories remind us that behind each legal battle is a human story filled with resilience, hope, and a quest for justice.
As Panupong takes his first steps in New Zealand, the world watches with bated breath to see how this chapter unfolds. Will he inspire others to follow suit, or will his story serve as a cautionary tale? Only time will tell. Until then, the welcoming land of New Zealand stands as a symbol of hope and a new beginning for those who dare to dream of a life bound by freedom rather than fear.
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