At 9:00 AM on May 28, the Criminal Court delivered its verdict in the case of Arnon Nampa, a human rights lawyer, who was charged with royal defamation under Section 112 of the Thai Criminal Code and five additional protest-related charges. These stemmed from his speech in front of Bangkhen Police Station on December 21, 2020, when he came to acknowledge charges related to the #Mob29November protest at the 11th Infantry Regiment headquarters.
According to the Thai Lawyers for Human Rights Center, the court ruled on charges under Section 112 and the Loudspeaker Act in connection to Arnon's speech. The court stated that King Rama X is the head of state and must not be defamed or disrespected, as the monarchy is deeply revered by the Thai people and not subject to criticism or ridicule.
The court found Arnon’s speech to be defamatory and damaging to the King's reputation and dignity, aimed at undermining public respect for the monarchy. Thus, the court convicted him under Section 112, sentencing him to three years in prison. His confession contributed to the court's consideration, leading to a reduced sentence of two years. He was also fined 100 baht under the Loudspeaker Act.
Currently, Arnon Nampa faces a total prison sentence of 22 years, 25 months, and 20 days.