The 18 Red shirts leaders were accused of violating Articles 112 and 116 of Thailand’s Criminal Code by allegedly violating the monarchy with their speeches.
DSI chief Tharit Phengdit said the DSI investigators and public prosecutors agreed during a meeting on April 10 to press the sedition charge against 18 red-shirt leaders.
Tharit said he will send registered letters to the 18 red-shirt leaders, telling them to report to public prosecutors to acknowledge the charge during May 2 to 6. The letters will be mailed on Tuesday.
Tharit said Jatuporn Promphan and 17 other red-shirt were accused of violating the monarchy through their speeches made during the rally on April 10 2010.
Tharit said public prosecutors and DSI investigators agreed that there were enough evidences to substantiate the sedition charge against the 18 red-shirt leaders.
The 18 leaders were accused of violating Articles 112 and 116 of the Criminal Code by allegedly violating the monarchy with their speeches.
Tharit said the charge was not lese majesty charge but the DSI and public prosecutors decided to slap the sedition charge against the 18 red-shirt leaders.
BP: Okay, let’s look at Section 116 of the Criminal Code* as excerpted below:
Whoever makes an appearance to the public by words, writings or any other means which is not an act within the purpose of the Constitution or for expressing an honest opinion or criticism in order:
1. To bring about a change in the Laws of the Country or the Government by the use of force or violence;
2. To raise unrest and disaffection amongst the people in a manner likely to cause disturbance in the country; or
3. To cause the people to transgress the laws of the Country, shall be punished with imprisonment not exceeding seven years.
Originally posted here:
Thai anti-government protesters to be charged with sedition
