The Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road in Bangkok announced its verdict on December 19 in the case against Anon Nampa, a human rights lawyer and activist affiliated with the pro-democracy "Ratsadon" movement. Prosecutors charged Anon with violating multiple laws, including Section 112 (royal defamation) and Section 116 (sedition) of the Thai Criminal Code, stemming from his speech at the "Harry Potter Democracy Spell" rally on August 3, 2020.
Anon was accused of inviting the public to join the protest via his Facebook account under the theme "Royal Institution Reform from a Legal Perspective," which was attended by approximately 100 people. During the event, prosecutors alleged that his remarks defamed the monarchy and incited public unrest. Anon pleaded not guilty but has been in detention throughout the trial.
The court found Anon guilty under Sections 112 and 116, sentencing him to four years in prison. However, considering mitigating factors, his sentence was reduced by one-third to two years and eight months without suspension.
Following the verdict, Anon was escorted back to detention while thanking supporters who had gathered in the courtroom. Approximately 60 supporters chanted slogans such as "Repeal 112" in protest of the law.
This case adds to five prior convictions against Anon, resulting in a combined prison sentence of 18 years, 10 months, and 20 days. His previous cases, spanning various courts, include charges related to other pro-democracy activities.