An exhibition in New York shedding light on Thailand’s royal defamation law, Section 112, recently received an unexpected visitor: Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, the estranged son of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. The exhibition titled “Faces of Victims of 112” at Columbia University draws attention to individuals who have been imprisoned or forced into exile due to alleged violations of this controversial law. This unexpected appearance by the king’s son has brought renewed attention to Section 112 and its impact on political dissent in Thailand.
Understanding Section 112 and its Consequences:
Section 112, commonly known as lese-majeste, imposes severe penalties, including up to 15 years of imprisonment, for offenses deemed insulting to the Thai monarchy. Such acts range from light-hearted jokes about the king or the royal family’s pets to online posts critical of the monarchy. Over the past year, as Thailand faced heightened political tensions, protests demanding the repeal of this law gained momentum. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights revealed that more than 250 people, including teenagers as young as 14, have faced charges under Section 112 for expressing their political opinions.
The Impact on Political Landscape:
The reform of Section 112 became a central issue during Thailand’s recent political transition. In the May general election, the progressive Move Forward Party, which advocated for changing the law, garnered significant public support. However, due to opposition from the country’s conservative establishment, the party’s leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, was unable to assume office. Instead, the populist Pheu Thai party, previously aligned with Move Forward, joined forces with royalist parties to establish a new government, led by Srettha Thavisin. Experts believe that the future of Thai electoral politics will continue to be influenced by public sentiment towards Section 112.
A Surprising Visitor and His Message:
Vacharaesorn Vivacharawongse, the 42-year-old son of the Thai king and a practicing lawyer based in New York, visited the Section 112 exhibition at Columbia University. In a Facebook post following his visit, Vacharaesorn expressed his love and respect for the monarchy while emphasizing the importance of listening to diverse opinions. His appearance and comments have been perceived as an encouraging development by Thai political scientist Pavin Chachavalpongpun, the organizer of the exhibition. Pavin suggests that Vacharaesorn’s intent may be to convey a message to the palace, emphasizing the need for reform to ensure the monarchy’s long-term survival.
Speculations on Succession:
Vacharaesorn’s recent visit to Thailand, along with his brother Chakriwat, triggered speculations about their potential roles in the country’s future. This marked their first return after nearly three decades since their parents’ divorce in 1996. Observers note that this visit was unlikely without the monarchy’s approval, hinting at potential considerations for succession amidst uncertainties in the royal family. As Thailand awaits updates on the condition of the king’s eldest daughter, Bajrakitiyabha Narendira Debyavati, who remains in a coma, the issue of succession becomes increasingly significant.
The post “Controversial Thai Monarchy Law Sparks Discussion at New York Exhibition” first appeared on the European News Global.
European News Global 