QUOTES: APHR Board Member Arlene Brosas on conviction of Thai MP Rukchanok Srinork

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https://mailchi.mp/aseanmp/quotes-rukchanok-srinork-conviction?e=41b9a01757

We are deeply dismayed by this verdict and stand in solidarity with Rukchanok Srinork. Peacefully expressing one’s political opinions should not result in criminal prosecution, much less six years imprisonment.” 

At the UN General Assembly in September, Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reiterated his commitment to democracy and ‘advancement of human rights at home and abroad.’ We applaud his words, but now is the time to prove the sincerity behind them. Jailing an elected representative for posting her opinion on social media certainly does not bode well for the state of democracy or human rights in Thailand.”

The harsh punishments and ambiguity in Section 112 of the Criminal Code, as well as the CCA, has been used all too often as a political weapon to stifle criticism and dissent. We call on the Thai government and legislature to amend these laws in order to put them in line with international human rights standards and laws. In the meantime, we urge Thai authorities to suspend all investigations and prosecutions under these laws and uphold the Thai people’s right to freedom of expression.”

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