28-5-2024 (BANGKOK) In a long-awaited reprieve, the Criminal Court of Thailand has finally granted bail to the young activist Tantawan “Tawan” Tuatulanon, who had been on a hunger strike for months to protest against the country’s judicial system. The decision comes just 13 days after another activist, Netiporn “Bung” Sanesangkhom, tragically died from cardiac arrest caused by spending more than 100 days on a hunger strike while in jail for violating the draconian lese-majeste law.
According to a social media post by the Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR) on Monday, Tantawan has been granted temporary release after being held behind bars pending trial since February of this year. The 22-year-old activist was accused of breaching Article 116 of the Penal Code, the Computer Crimes Act, as well as traffic laws and refusing to obey police orders.
Article 116 prohibits individuals from raising unrest and disaffection among people or causing citizens to transgress the laws of the country. Tantawan’s arrest stemmed from an incident on February 8th, when she allegedly honked and attempted to overtake a royal motorcade, leading to a confrontation with a police officer.
Despite the court denying her bail several times previously, the decision to grant Tantawan temporary release on Monday was welcomed by human rights advocates. However, the conditions of her bail include a 100,000 baht (approximately £2,300) guarantee and the requirement to wear an electronic monitoring device at all times.
TLHR stated that they are currently investigating whether Tantawan’s bail may be denied for other charges. The organization also mentioned that the young activist has been admitted to Thammasat University Hospital for treatment, as her prolonged hunger strike has taken a toll on her health.
This is not the first time Tantawan has resorted to a hunger strike to protest against the judicial system’s treatment of political activists. Last year, she went without food for over 50 days to demand bail for individuals behind bars on political charges.
The plight of Tantawan and Netiporn has brought renewed attention to the ongoing struggle for human rights and freedom of expression in Thailand. Their hunger strikes have not only highlighted the severe consequences of the country’s draconian laws but have also sparked broader discussions about the need for judicial reform and the protection of civil liberties.
