A Thai Member of Parliament was sentenced for six years in jail, before she was released on a USD 14,000 bail, under the country's harsh lese-majeste laws which punish people heavily for what is perceived as criticism of the Thai monarchy. Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork (28) has pleaded not guilty to posting tweets which were perceived to be critical of the monarchy. When she was granted bail, she was warned that she should not repeat the offence.

The Move Forward party, which Ice represents, registered victory in this year's election. The party has urged reforms of the harsh lese-majeste laws. Despite the party's victory, it could not form the government as the unelected senate used Move Forward's criticism of lese-majeste laws as an excuse to block the bid.

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Mass protests erupted against the lese-majeste laws in the year 2020. The protests had lasted several months. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, an activist group, has been quoted in media reports as saying that since 2020, about 260 charges have been filed under these laws. About 2000 people have faced prosecution for getting involved in protests.

BBC reported that earlier this week, a 26-year-old man was sent to prison after he shouted at a royal motorcade. The man has reportedly been released on bail.

<h2>Accusation&nbsp;of&nbsp;'great malice'</h2>

Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork is out on bail but she plans to appeal the sentence handed to her.

Reuters has reported that one of posts she made accused the government of using Covid vaccination to boost monarchy's image. The court has deemed this defamation. The court has accused that she showed "great malice" towards the king through a separate post.

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Before joining the politics, Rukchanok was an activist who took part in 2020 protests. The protesters had demanded that the country be made more democratic and the laws dealing with the extremely powerful royal family be reformed.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-freed-thai-hostage-recalls-experience-in-hamas-captivity-says-israelis-were-beaten-664645">Israel-Hamas war: Freed Thai hostage recalls experience in Hamas captivity, says Israelis were beaten</a>

She joined the Move Forward party and defeated candidate from the opposition Pheu Thai party to get elected to the parliament. She was widely regarded as "giant killer' for her performance in the polls.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Thai Member of Parliament was sentenced for six years in jail, before she was released on a USD 14,000 bail, under the country's harsh lese-majeste laws which punish people heavily for what is perceived as criticism of the Thai monarchy.

A Thai Member of Parliament was sentenced for six years in jail, before she was released on a USD 14,000 bail, under the country's harsh lese-majeste laws which punish people heavily for what is perceived as criticism of the Thai monarchy. Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork (28) has pleaded not guilty to posting tweets which were perceived to be critical of the monarchy. When she was granted bail, she was warned that she should not repeat the offence. The Move Forward party, which Ice represents, registered victory in this year's election. The party has urged reforms of the harsh lese-majeste laws. Despite the party's victory, it could not form the government as the unelected senate used Move Forward's criticism of lese-majeste laws as an excuse to block the bid. Watch | China-Vietnam to arrive on mutually acceptable solutions on south china sea disputes × Mass protests erupted against the lese-majeste laws in the year 2020. The protests had lasted several months. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, an activist group, has been quoted in media reports as saying that since 2020, about 260 charges have been filed under these laws. About 2000 people have faced prosecution for getting involved in protests. BBC reported that earlier this week, a 26-year-old man was sent to prison after he shouted at a royal motorcade. The man has reportedly been released on bail. Accusation of 'great malice' Rukchanok "Ice" Srinork is out on bail but she plans to appeal the sentence handed to her. Reuters has reported that one of posts she made accused the government of using Covid vaccination to boost monarchy's image. The court has deemed this defamation. The court has accused that she showed "great malice" towards the king through a separate post. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Hugs, tears, joyous reunions as Thai hostages return to Bangkok Before joining the politics, Rukchanok was an activist who took part in 2020 protests. The protesters had demanded that the country be made more democratic and the laws dealing with the extremely powerful royal family be reformed. Also Read | Israel-Hamas war: Freed Thai hostage recalls experience in Hamas captivity, says Israelis were beaten She joined the Move Forward party and defeated candidate from the opposition Pheu Thai party to get elected to the parliament. She was widely regarded as "giant killer' for her performance in the polls. (With inputs from agencies)

Thai woman MP handed six-year jail sentence for 'insult' to monarchy 

Thailand’s opposition and last week’s election winner, Move Forward Party and seven other parties on Monday (May 22) signed an ambitious and sweeping agreement on a platform which they hope would lead to the formation of a solid coalition government in July. The 23-point agreement was about drafting a new constitution, ending monopolies and allowing same-sex marriage but did not mention the country’s lese majeste laws.&nbsp;

The agreement also comes days after the leader of the progressive Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenra&nbsp;said eight parties have agreed to form a coalition government with him as the prime minister. Move Forward and Pheu Thai parties dominated last week’s election defeating the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade paving the way for a new era in Thai politics.

The pact was about “about shared values and commonalities and shared agenda and accountability,” said Pita. He also said that the negotiations were “fruitful, comprehensive, and a good start.” Notably, the signing took place a day prior to the news conference, exactly nine years after incumbent and then army chief Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha seized power following a coup.

“I’m prime minister-elect and there are several roadblocks as you understand it, but we have a strong team to manage it, and hopefully, to be able to minimise risk and minimise the destabilising factors that have affected the economy,” said Pita. Furthermore, he also said that while all parties can propose their own policies they must not violate this agreement through ministries.&nbsp;

While the agreement addresses multiple issues, it failed to include one of the most contentious issues in Thailand, which is the amendment of a harsh law against criticising the monarchy. As some parties have not agreed to amend the lese-majeste law which punishes perceived insults of the monarchy with up to 15 years in prison. Critics say that this law has been used to stifle free speech and dissent.&nbsp;

The proposal to amend the law&nbsp;was one of the most significant platforms that Move Forward ran on. This comes as many young people in Thailand wish to see democratic reform in the country.&nbsp;

Addressing the failure of including the amendment to the lese-majeste law, Pita said that he does not think his party to push for reform of lese majeste laws will put off the upper house. “All parties agree that every mission that the government will do must not affect the country’s status as a unitary state, the country’s status as a democracy under a constitutional monarchy framework, and the inviolable status of the monarch,” the agreement noted.&nbsp;

Another core policy of Move Forward which was a part of the pact was calling for an end to mandatory conscription and reform of the armed forces as well as the justice system and civil service. The pact also aims to move Thailand from military conscription to voluntary enlistment “except when the country is at war.”

Notably, Thailand’s military has staged 13 coups since the end of absolute monarchy nearly a century ago. As of now, Pita’s alliance comprises 313 seats, but it needs backing from 376 legislators in the 500-member parliament to vote for him in order to become the prime minister. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Thailand’s opposition and last week’s election winner, Move Forward Party and seven other parties on Monday (May 22) signed an ambitious and sweeping agreement on a platform which they hope would lead to the formation of a solid coalition government in July.

Thailand’s opposition and last week’s election winner, Move Forward Party and seven other parties on Monday (May 22) signed an ambitious and sweeping agreement on a platform which they hope would lead to the formation of a solid coalition government in July. The 23-point agreement was about drafting a new constitution, ending monopolies and allowing same-sex marriage but did not mention the country’s lese majeste laws. The agreement also comes days after the leader of the progressive Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenra said eight parties have agreed to form a coalition government with him as the prime minister. Move Forward and Pheu Thai parties dominated last week’s election defeating the military-backed rivals who have been in power for nearly a decade paving the way for a new era in Thai politics. The pact was about “about shared values and commonalities and shared agenda and accountability,” said Pita. He also said that the negotiations were “fruitful, comprehensive, and a good start.” Notably, the signing took place a day prior to the news conference, exactly nine years after incumbent and then army chief Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha seized power following a coup. “I’m prime minister-elect and there are several roadblocks as you understand it, but we have a strong team to manage it, and hopefully, to be able to minimise risk and minimise the destabilising factors that have affected the economy,” said Pita. Furthermore, he also said that while all parties can propose their own policies they must not violate this agreement through ministries. While the agreement addresses multiple issues, it failed to include one of the most contentious issues in Thailand, which is the amendment of a harsh law against criticising the monarchy. As some parties have not agreed to amend the lese-majeste law which punishes perceived insults of the monarchy with up to 15 years in prison. Critics say that this law has been used to stifle free speech and dissent. The proposal to amend the law was one of the most significant platforms that Move Forward ran on. This comes as many young people in Thailand wish to see democratic reform in the country. Addressing the failure of including the amendment to the lese-majeste law, Pita said that he does not think his party to push for reform of lese majeste laws will put off the upper house. “All parties agree that every mission that the government will do must not affect the country’s status as a unitary state, the country’s status as a democracy under a constitutional monarchy framework, and the inviolable status of the monarch,” the agreement noted. Another core policy of Move Forward which was a part of the pact was calling for an end to mandatory conscription and reform of the armed forces as well as the justice system and civil service. The pact also aims to move Thailand from military conscription to voluntary enlistment “except when the country is at war.” Notably, Thailand’s military has staged 13 coups since the end of absolute monarchy nearly a century ago. As of now, Pita’s alliance comprises 313 seats, but it needs backing from 376 legislators in the 500-member parliament to vote for him in order to become the prime minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand's Move Forward Party, seven allies sign pact aimed at reforms

Thailand parliament was dissolved on Monday (March 20), paving the way for an election sometime in May. The election is set to pit the billionaire Shinawatra family which has dominated the elections for over two decades against the military-linked candidates. This comes after King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed a decree to dissolve the parliament, as per an announcement in the Royal Gazette.&nbsp;

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is expected to be her party Pheu Thai’s candidate. She had previously said that she is campaigning to win by a landslide. According to the announcement in the Royal Gazette, “This is a return of political decision-making power to the people swiftly to continue democratic government with the King as head of state.”&nbsp;

An election must be held within 45 to 60 days after the parliament’s dissolution. While no official date for the election has been announced, a report by Reuters citing two sources said the voting will take place on May 14.

The election will also see the participation of incumbent Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. The 68-year-old came to power in 2014 following a coup and will run in the upcoming election under a new party named United Thai Nation.&nbsp;

According to opinion surveys, Prayuth is trailing behind Paetongtarn after her support jumped by 10 points to 38.2 per cent over the weekend, reported Reuters. Parties associated with the prominent Shinavatra family have won the most seats in every election in Thailand since 2001. However, their elected leaders have also been repeatedly ousted.&nbsp;

Paetongtarn’s aunt, Yingluck was forced out of office in 2014 following a court ruling, while Paetongtarn’s father Thaksin was ousted by a military coup in 2006; both currently live in exile. While the Shinawatra family, which has controlled three governments previously, is loathed by the royalist military establishment, they are popular among Thailand’s working class and rural areas of the north and north-east.

The election in May also comes after mass protests led by the country’s youth which challenged&nbsp;Thailand’s establishment amid calls for curbing the power of the country’s monarchy and re-writing the military-backed constitution. Months later when the protests halted the government began filing cases against the protesters where nearly 2,000 people including 284 people under the age of 18 were charged.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Thailand parliament was dissolved on Monday (March 20), paving the way for an election sometime in May. The election is set to pit the billionaire Shinawatra family which has dominated the elections for over two decades against the military-linked candidates.

Thailand parliament was dissolved on Monday (March 20), paving the way for an election sometime in May. The election is set to pit the billionaire Shinawatra family which has dominated the elections for over two decades against the military-linked candidates. This comes after King Maha Vajiralongkorn endorsed a decree to dissolve the parliament, as per an announcement in the Royal Gazette. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is expected to be her party Pheu Thai’s candidate. She had previously said that she is campaigning to win by a landslide. According to the announcement in the Royal Gazette, “This is a return of political decision-making power to the people swiftly to continue democratic government with the King as head of state.” An election must be held within 45 to 60 days after the parliament’s dissolution. While no official date for the election has been announced, a report by Reuters citing two sources said the voting will take place on May 14. The election will also see the participation of incumbent Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha. The 68-year-old came to power in 2014 following a coup and will run in the upcoming election under a new party named United Thai Nation. According to opinion surveys, Prayuth is trailing behind Paetongtarn after her support jumped by 10 points to 38.2 per cent over the weekend, reported Reuters. Parties associated with the prominent Shinavatra family have won the most seats in every election in Thailand since 2001. However, their elected leaders have also been repeatedly ousted. Paetongtarn’s aunt, Yingluck was forced out of office in 2014 following a court ruling, while Paetongtarn’s father Thaksin was ousted by a military coup in 2006; both currently live in exile. While the Shinawatra family, which has controlled three governments previously, is loathed by the royalist military establishment, they are popular among Thailand’s working class and rural areas of the north and north-east. The election in May also comes after mass protests led by the country’s youth which challenged Thailand’s establishment amid calls for curbing the power of the country’s monarchy and re-writing the military-backed constitution. Months later when the protests halted the government began filing cases against the protesters where nearly 2,000 people including 284 people under the age of 18 were charged. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Thailand: Paetongtarn Shinawatra leads opinion polls ahead of upcoming elections after parliament dissolution

Dissent and demonstration continue to grow against the monarchy in Thailand. Thousands of protestors hit the streets of Bangkok calling for reforms to the monarchy and the military govt.

Thailand: Protestors demand reforms to monarchy

Global rights bodies are up in arms with authorities in Thailand and want them to unconditionally drop `politically motivated` charges against children who peacefully express their opinions. 
 
On Monday, the Central Juvenile and Family Court informed 17-year-old Thanakorn Phiraban that he has been indicted on lese majeste (insulting the monarchy) charges related to his speech at a pro-democracy rally on December 6, 2020, in Bangkok. 
 
Under Thailand`s draconian Article 112 of the Criminal Code, Thanakorn faces three to 15 years in prison if found guilty. 
 
"By punishing outspoken children with lese majeste charges, the Thai authorities are seeking to intimidate peaceful critics by demonstrating that they will all be harshly punished regardless of their age," said Brad Adams, Asia director at the Human Rights Watch. 
 
"These senseless, rights-abusing charges should immediately be dropped against Thanakorn and all others peacefully expressing their views." 
 
The number of lese majeste cases in Thailand has significantly increased in the past year. 
 
After almost a three-year hiatus in which lese majeste prosecutions were not brought before the courts, in November 2020 Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha ordered the authorities to resume lese majeste prosecutions because of growing criticisms of the monarchy. 
 
Since then, officials have charged at least 82 people with lese majeste crimes in relation to various activities at pro-democracy rallies or comments on social media. 
 
Six of them are children, under age 18. 
 
In a February 8 statement on the situation in Thailand, UN human rights experts said that lese majeste laws have "no place in a democratic country". 
 
They also expressed serious concerns about the growing number of lese majeste prosecutions and harsh prison sentences meted put by courts in Thailand to some defendants. 
 
The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Thailand has ratified, protects the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. 
 
General Comment 34 of the Human Rights Committee, the international expert body that monitors compliance with the covenant, specifically states that laws such as those for lese majeste "should not provide for more severe penalties solely on the basis of the identity of the person that may have been impugned" and that governments "should not prohibit criticism of institutions". 
 
Children from middle and high schools have become commonplace at most pro-democracy rallies across Thailand, even giving speeches on stage. 
 
Groups such as the Bad Students have held their own rallies on school grounds and occasionally conducted street protests. 
 
But despite concerns publicly raised by the Unicef and human rights groups, the Thai authorities continue to punish children for expressing views, participating in peaceful public rallies, and otherwise taking part in activities to demand democratic reforms. 
 
The Thai Lawyers for Human Rights has reported that at least 41 children have been charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression and assembly since the youth-led pro-democracy rallies started in July 2020. 
 
Many other children have faced various forms of intimidation by the authorities to try to stop them from taking part in political activity or making critical comments about the government and the monarchy. 
 
The government`s actions violate Thailand`s obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which ensures children`s rights to participate in peaceful protests and to express their opinions. 
 
"Thai authorities should not be suppressing the voices of Thailand`s children expressing their views and demanding democratic reforms," HRW`s Adams said. 
 
"Instead of responding to children`s appeals with prosecutions, the authorities should listen to their views, and protect their rights to express their opinions without fear or intimidation."

Global rights bodies are up in arms with authorities in Thailand and want them to unconditionally drop `politically motivated` charges against children who peacefully express their opinions.

Global rights bodies are up in arms with authorities in Thailand and want them to unconditionally drop `politically motivated` charges against children who peacefully express their opinions. On Monday, the Central Juvenile and Family Court informed 17-year-old Thanakorn Phiraban that he has been indicted on lese majeste (insulting the monarchy) charges related to his speech at a pro-democracy rally on December 6, 2020, in Bangkok. Under Thailand`s draconian Article 112 of the Criminal Code, Thanakorn faces three to 15 years in prison if found guilty. "By punishing outspoken children with lese majeste charges, the Thai authorities are seeking to intimidate peaceful critics by demonstrating that they will all be harshly punished regardless of their age," said Brad Adams, Asia director at the Human Rights Watch. "These senseless, rights-abusing charges should immediately be dropped against Thanakorn and all others peacefully expressing their views." The number of lese majeste cases in Thailand has significantly increased in the past year. After almost a three-year hiatus in which lese majeste prosecutions were not brought before the courts, in November 2020 Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha ordered the authorities to resume lese majeste prosecutions because of growing criticisms of the monarchy. Since then, officials have charged at least 82 people with lese majeste crimes in relation to various activities at pro-democracy rallies or comments on social media. Six of them are children, under age 18. In a February 8 statement on the situation in Thailand, UN human rights experts said that lese majeste laws have "no place in a democratic country". They also expressed serious concerns about the growing number of lese majeste prosecutions and harsh prison sentences meted put by courts in Thailand to some defendants. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Thailand has ratified, protects the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. General Comment 34 of the Human Rights Committee, the international expert body that monitors compliance with the covenant, specifically states that laws such as those for lese majeste "should not provide for more severe penalties solely on the basis of the identity of the person that may have been impugned" and that governments "should not prohibit criticism of institutions". Children from middle and high schools have become commonplace at most pro-democracy rallies across Thailand, even giving speeches on stage. Groups such as the Bad Students have held their own rallies on school grounds and occasionally conducted street protests. But despite concerns publicly raised by the Unicef and human rights groups, the Thai authorities continue to punish children for expressing views, participating in peaceful public rallies, and otherwise taking part in activities to demand democratic reforms. The Thai Lawyers for Human Rights has reported that at least 41 children have been charged for peacefully exercising their rights to freedom of expression and assembly since the youth-led pro-democracy rallies started in July 2020. Many other children have faced various forms of intimidation by the authorities to try to stop them from taking part in political activity or making critical comments about the government and the monarchy. The government`s actions violate Thailand`s obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which ensures children`s rights to participate in peaceful protests and to express their opinions. "Thai authorities should not be suppressing the voices of Thailand`s children expressing their views and demanding democratic reforms," HRW`s Adams said. "Instead of responding to children`s appeals with prosecutions, the authorities should listen to their views, and protect their rights to express their opinions without fear or intimidation."

Thai teen prosecuted for insulting monarchy

Protests the Thai way: Pool ducks, Hunger Games salute & drag queens

Police in Thailand said on Monday that it will&nbsp;investigate media coverage over protests taking place in the country to curb&nbsp;“distorted information”.

Deputy police spokesman Kissana Phataracharoen confirmed the probe and said the protests are causing&nbsp;''unrest and confusion in society''.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/fight-against-crown-thailand-locals-stages-biggest-pro-democracy-protest-in-bangkok-335894">Fight against crown: Thailand locals stages biggest pro-democracy protest in Bangkok</a>

Under existing laws, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society are empowered to ban broadcasts and block internet content.

Police themselves can also do so under the emergency decree, which went into effect October&nbsp;15, a day after protesters heckled a royal motorcade in once unthinkable scene in a country where the monarchy is protected by strict laws and treated with reverence.<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailands-anti-govt-protests-continue-despite-police-ban-336343/embed" style="width: 100%; max-width: 560px;" width="560"></iframe>

The censorship request&nbsp;calls for blocking access four news outlets in particular, namely Voice TV, The Reporters, The Standard, Prachatai, and Free Youth.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;announcement prompted anger from media groups and accusations of an attack on press freedom by the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, the former junta leader the protesters are seeking to drive from off.

The government ordered a ban on news and online information that could affect national security last Thursday as it also banned political gatherings of more than five people in the face of the growing challenge.

Protests have taken place every day since then, the latest drawing tens of thousands of people in Bangkok and across the country. Police gave a figure of 20,000 protesters in the capital.

"We will prosecute everyone," deputy Bangkok police chief Piya Tawichai said, adding that 74 protesters had been arrested since Oct. 13.

Protesters seek the removal of Prime Minister Prayuth, accusing him of engineering last year's election to keep hold of power he first seized in a 2014 coup. He says the election was fair.

The protesters have also grown more vocal in demanding reforms to the monarchy to reduce the powers of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. The Royal Palace has made no comment on the protests or protesters' demands.

Protesters have said they will demonstrate every day, but had yet to set out a plan for protests on Monday.

Prayuth has said he will not quit. Speaking at Government House on Monday, Prayuth said he supported a proposal for a special parliament session to discuss the situation. His supporters have a majority in parliament.

"We are just asking people not to do wrong and destroy the government and people’s property," he said. "What the government needs to do is to protect the monarchy."

Police in Thailand said on Monday that it will investigate media coverage over protests taking place in the country to curb “distorted information”. Deputy police spokesman Kissana Phataracharoen confirmed the probe and said the protests are causing ''unrest and confusion in society''.

Police in Thailand said on Monday that it will investigate media coverage over protests taking place in the country to curb “distorted information”. Deputy police spokesman Kissana Phataracharoen confirmed the probe and said the protests are causing ''unrest and confusion in society''. Also see: Fight against crown: Thailand locals stages biggest pro-democracy protest in Bangkok Under existing laws, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society are empowered to ban broadcasts and block internet content. Police themselves can also do so under the emergency decree, which went into effect October 15, a day after protesters heckled a royal motorcade in once unthinkable scene in a country where the monarchy is protected by strict laws and treated with reverence. The censorship request calls for blocking access four news outlets in particular, namely Voice TV, The Reporters, The Standard, Prachatai, and Free Youth. The announcement prompted anger from media groups and accusations of an attack on press freedom by the government of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, the former junta leader the protesters are seeking to drive from off. The government ordered a ban on news and online information that could affect national security last Thursday as it also banned political gatherings of more than five people in the face of the growing challenge. Protests have taken place every day since then, the latest drawing tens of thousands of people in Bangkok and across the country. Police gave a figure of 20,000 protesters in the capital. "We will prosecute everyone," deputy Bangkok police chief Piya Tawichai said, adding that 74 protesters had been arrested since Oct. 13. Protesters seek the removal of Prime Minister Prayuth, accusing him of engineering last year's election to keep hold of power he first seized in a 2014 coup. He says the election was fair. The protesters have also grown more vocal in demanding reforms to the monarchy to reduce the powers of King Maha Vajiralongkorn. The Royal Palace has made no comment on the protests or protesters' demands. Protesters have said they will demonstrate every day, but had yet to set out a plan for protests on Monday. Prayuth has said he will not quit. Speaking at Government House on Monday, Prayuth said he supported a proposal for a special parliament session to discuss the situation. His supporters have a majority in parliament. "We are just asking people not to do wrong and destroy the government and people’s property," he said. "What the government needs to do is to protect the monarchy."

Police in Thailand investigate media coverage over protests

A controversial brass plaque proclaiming that Thailand "belongs to the people and not the king" is swiftly&nbsp;becoming&nbsp;the emblem of a pro-democracy protest movement.

The plaque was placed near the Grand Palace in Bangkok during a mass rally by Thai pro-democracy protesters&nbsp;to call for the ouster of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and reforms in the monarchy. It was&nbsp;swiftly&nbsp;removed by authorities&nbsp;in darkness less than a day.

Thai activists are creating&nbsp;reproductions of the plaque in the form of Instagram filters, tattoos and merchandise ranging from mobile covers, t-shirts to&nbsp;key rings.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-protesters-plaque-removed-from-near-palace-police-says-329017">Thai protesters’ plaque removed from near palace, police says</a>

They continue to keep the symbol alive&nbsp;in a bold move to try and dismantle the powerful monarchy of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, despite laws banning criticism of the Thai royals.

<img alt="Thai" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="63d78d5b-b09c-4c04-8268-626d44f57e07" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/keychains--made-according-to-the-design-of-protesters--plaque-declaring--quot-this-country-belongs-to-the-people-quot---are-seen-in-bangkok-1.jpg" />

In picture: Keychains, made according to the design of protesters' plaque declaring "This country belongs to the people", are seen in Bangkok,&nbsp;Thailand/REUTERS

"Even though the real plaque disappeared, we (people) are now in the year of 2020, the plaque will appear again anywhere," said Anchalee Suebsangin, a member of Youth &amp; Direct Democracy Thailand, who started selling t-shirts containing designs of the plaque on Facebook within hours of hearing it had disappeared. She soon had over 1,000 orders.

"I don't intend to destroy the (monarchy) institution, but I think its power needs to be limited," said the 27-year-old office worker.

<img alt="Thai" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8f367f1-33d2-4233-8e6a-d0e9cc034b4d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2835%29_8.jpg" />

In picture:&nbsp;Phone cases printed with a plaque declaring "This country belongs to the people" are seen at a shop in Nonthaburi province,&nbsp;Thailand/REUTERS

The plaque, which features the three-finger salute used by Thai pro-democracy activists since a 2014 coup, reads "this country belongs to the people and is not the property of the monarch as they have deceived us."

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FILE PHOTO: Thai protester places&nbsp;a sticker during a mass rally to call for the ouster of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and reforms in the monarchy in front of parliament in Bangkok,&nbsp;Thailand/REUTERS

It resembles another plaque commemorating the end of absolute monarchy in 1932 that was removed from outside a royal palace in 2017.

The palace did not comment on the plaque and has made no comment on the protests.

Ship, a 31-year-old graphic designer and sound engineer, created an Instagram filter with different colours of the plaque that has reached more than three million people.

"I created this one for those who have the same political view, they can install the plaque without trouble from anyone or destroying any property," said Ship.

Aunyamamee Dechara, the 25-year-old founder of online store Aunyaxstore who sold more than thousands of phone cases containing the image of the plaque, plans to donate all proceeds to support students participating in the movement, as she too supports the idea of monarchy reform.

ROYAL FIELD

The plaque, placed on the area next to the palace known as Sanam Luang - the Royal Field - was the work of the United Front of Thammasat and Demonstration (UFTD) protest group. They declined to identify a specific artist.

Even before the plaque was removed, they published digital files on the internet so anyone could reproduce it.

"The plaque wasn't just planted on Sanam Luang, but also in the hearts of the people, so it's no surprise that it would reappear everywhere," UFTD leader Parit "Penguin" Chiwarak told Reuters.

Thai&nbsp;activists in Germany placed a replica plaque outside the king's residence there.

Sellers said they would donate the profits to the UFTD protest group, while some would also contribute a separate fund set up to help pay expected legal expenses. Several leaders have already been charged over earlier protests.

The protesters challenge Prayuth's legitimacy, saying elections last year were engineered to keep him in power. He says they were democratic.

A controversial brass plaque proclaiming that Thailand "belongs to the people and not the king" is swiftly becoming the emblem of a pro-democracy protest movement.

A controversial brass plaque proclaiming that Thailand "belongs to the people and not the king" is swiftly becoming the emblem of a pro-democracy protest movement. The plaque was placed near the Grand Palace in Bangkok during a mass rally by Thai pro-democracy protesters to call for the ouster of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and reforms in the monarchy. It was swiftly removed by authorities in darkness less than a day. Thai activists are creating reproductions of the plaque in the form of Instagram filters, tattoos and merchandise ranging from mobile covers, t-shirts to key rings. Also read: Thai protesters’ plaque removed from near palace, police says They continue to keep the symbol alive in a bold move to try and dismantle the powerful monarchy of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, despite laws banning criticism of the Thai royals. In picture: Keychains, made according to the design of protesters' plaque declaring "This country belongs to the people", are seen in Bangkok, Thailand/REUTERS "Even though the real plaque disappeared, we (people) are now in the year of 2020, the plaque will appear again anywhere," said Anchalee Suebsangin, a member of Youth & Direct Democracy Thailand, who started selling t-shirts containing designs of the plaque on Facebook within hours of hearing it had disappeared. She soon had over 1,000 orders. "I don't intend to destroy the (monarchy) institution, but I think its power needs to be limited," said the 27-year-old office worker. In picture: Phone cases printed with a plaque declaring "This country belongs to the people" are seen at a shop in Nonthaburi province, Thailand/REUTERS The plaque, which features the three-finger salute used by Thai pro-democracy activists since a 2014 coup, reads "this country belongs to the people and is not the property of the monarch as they have deceived us." FILE PHOTO: Thai protester places a sticker during a mass rally to call for the ouster of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and reforms in the monarchy in front of parliament in Bangkok, Thailand/REUTERS It resembles another plaque commemorating the end of absolute monarchy in 1932 that was removed from outside a royal palace in 2017. The palace did not comment on the plaque and has made no comment on the protests. Ship, a 31-year-old graphic designer and sound engineer, created an Instagram filter with different colours of the plaque that has reached more than three million people. "I created this one for those who have the same political view, they can install the plaque without trouble from anyone or destroying any property," said Ship. Aunyamamee Dechara, the 25-year-old founder of online store Aunyaxstore who sold more than thousands of phone cases containing the image of the plaque, plans to donate all proceeds to support students participating in the movement, as she too supports the idea of monarchy reform. ROYAL FIELD The plaque, placed on the area next to the palace known as Sanam Luang - the Royal Field - was the work of the United Front of Thammasat and Demonstration (UFTD) protest group. They declined to identify a specific artist. Even before the plaque was removed, they published digital files on the internet so anyone could reproduce it. "The plaque wasn't just planted on Sanam Luang, but also in the hearts of the people, so it's no surprise that it would reappear everywhere," UFTD leader Parit "Penguin" Chiwarak told Reuters. Thai activists in Germany placed a replica plaque outside the king's residence there. Sellers said they would donate the profits to the UFTD protest group, while some would also contribute a separate fund set up to help pay expected legal expenses. Several leaders have already been charged over earlier protests. The protesters challenge Prayuth's legitimacy, saying elections last year were engineered to keep him in power. He says they were democratic.

Plaque design defying Thai monarchy turned into Instagram filters, merchandise

Thailand began legal action on Thursday&nbsp;against Facebook and Twitter for ignoring requests to take down content, in its first such move against major internet firms.

The digital ministry filed legal complaints with cybercrime police after the two social media companies missed 15-day deadlines to comply fully with court-issued takedown orders from August&nbsp;27, the digital minister, Puttipong Punnakanta, said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-government-threatens-legal-action-against-facebook-over-posts-criticising-monarchy-320249">Thai government threatens legal action against Facebook over posts criticising monarchy</a>

No action was taken against Alphabet's Google as originally suggested, as it took down all the YouTube videos specified in the order late on Wednesday, Puttipong said.

"This is the first time we're using the Computer Crime Act to take action against platforms for not complying with court orders," Puttipong told reporters.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/down-with-the-dictatorship-thailand-witness-biggest-anti-government-protest-in-years-321005">'Down with the dictatorship': Thailand witness biggest anti-government protest in years</a>

"Unless the companies send their representatives to negotiate or request further information, police can bring criminal cases against them. But if they do, and acknowledge the wrongdoing, we can settle on fines."

Puttipong did not disclose details of the content or say what laws it had violated. The complaints were against the U.S. parent companies and not their Thai subsidiaries, he said.

The ministry will file more such takedown requests to Facebook, Twitter, and Google, asking them to remove more than 3,000 items from their platforms, with content ranging from pornography to criticism of the monarchy, Puttipong said.

Twitter declined to comment, while Facebook and Google did not respond to requests for comment.

Thailand has a tough lese majeste law that prohibits insulting the monarchy. The Computer Crime Act, which outlaws the uploading of information that is false or affects national security, has also been used to prosecute online criticism of the royal family.

Thailand began legal action on Thursday against Facebook and Twitter for ignoring requests to take down content, in its first such move against major internet firms.

Thailand began legal action on Thursday against Facebook and Twitter for ignoring requests to take down content, in its first such move against major internet firms. The digital ministry filed legal complaints with cybercrime police after the two social media companies missed 15-day deadlines to comply fully with court-issued takedown orders from August 27, the digital minister, Puttipong Punnakanta, said. Also read: Thai government threatens legal action against Facebook over posts criticising monarchy No action was taken against Alphabet's Google as originally suggested, as it took down all the YouTube videos specified in the order late on Wednesday, Puttipong said. "This is the first time we're using the Computer Crime Act to take action against platforms for not complying with court orders," Puttipong told reporters. Also see: 'Down with the dictatorship': Thailand witness biggest anti-government protest in years "Unless the companies send their representatives to negotiate or request further information, police can bring criminal cases against them. But if they do, and acknowledge the wrongdoing, we can settle on fines." Puttipong did not disclose details of the content or say what laws it had violated. The complaints were against the U.S. parent companies and not their Thai subsidiaries, he said. The ministry will file more such takedown requests to Facebook, Twitter, and Google, asking them to remove more than 3,000 items from their platforms, with content ranging from pornography to criticism of the monarchy, Puttipong said. Twitter declined to comment, while Facebook and Google did not respond to requests for comment. Thailand has a tough lese majeste law that prohibits insulting the monarchy. The Computer Crime Act, which outlaws the uploading of information that is false or affects national security, has also been used to prosecute online criticism of the royal family.

Thailand takes first legal action against Facebook, Twitter over content

In a big blow to China, Thailand on Thursday announced it will&nbsp;scrap&nbsp;a Chinese led-KRA canal project under which Beijing wanted to build a bypass to the Strait of Malacca.

It also&nbsp;delayed the purchase of two Yuan-class S26T submarines worth $724 million highlighting&nbsp;China's losing grip on its key allies in Indo-Pacific Region.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-india-bans-apps-china-says-it-violates-legal-interests-of-chinese-investors-324934" hreflang="en">After India bans apps, China says 'legal interests' of investors violated</a>

Thailand took the step after facing intense pressure from its arch-rival Pheu Thai Party and the public who had raised concerns that the&nbsp;proposed&nbsp;120-kilometre mega canal&nbsp;would undermine the independence of poor Southeast Asian countries like Myanmar and Cambodia, which have comparatively weak civil societies that are highly vulnerable to Chinese interference.

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Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, fourth from left, meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping, fourth from right, during a meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing/Afp

After the&nbsp;the Galwan Valley clash in Ladakh, the Indian Navy had deployed its frontline&nbsp;vessels along the&nbsp;Malacca Straits, a strategic chokepoint&nbsp;between the Indonesian island of Sumatra that divides the Indian and Pacific Oceans and&nbsp;the Malay Peninsula.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-at-line-of-actual-control-direct-result-of-action-by-china-india-325035" hreflang="en">Situation at Line of Actual Control direct result of action by China: India</a>

Cutting through the Isthmus of Kra in Thailand, the&nbsp;KRA canal project,&nbsp;could have been a crucial strategic asset for China, allowing the Chinese navy to move freely and quickly between its newly constructed bases in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean.

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Through the project,&nbsp;China could have put an&nbsp;end to the Malacca dilemma by&nbsp;bypassing the Strait of Malacca,&nbsp;a narrow chokepoint between the Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra that divides the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

In a big blow to China, Thailand on Thursday announced it will scrap a Chinese led-KRA canal project under which Beijing wanted to build a bypass to the Strait of Malacca.

In a big blow to China, Thailand on Thursday announced it will scrap a Chinese led-KRA canal project under which Beijing wanted to build a bypass to the Strait of Malacca. It also delayed the purchase of two Yuan-class S26T submarines worth $724 million highlighting China's losing grip on its key allies in Indo-Pacific Region. Also read| After India bans apps, China says 'legal interests' of investors violated Thailand took the step after facing intense pressure from its arch-rival Pheu Thai Party and the public who had raised concerns that the proposed 120-kilometre mega canal would undermine the independence of poor Southeast Asian countries like Myanmar and Cambodia, which have comparatively weak civil societies that are highly vulnerable to Chinese interference. Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, fourth from left, meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping, fourth from right, during a meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing/Afp After the the Galwan Valley clash in Ladakh, the Indian Navy had deployed its frontline vessels along the Malacca Straits, a strategic chokepoint between the Indonesian island of Sumatra that divides the Indian and Pacific Oceans and the Malay Peninsula. Also read| Situation at Line of Actual Control direct result of action by China: India Cutting through the Isthmus of Kra in Thailand, the KRA canal project, could have been a crucial strategic asset for China, allowing the Chinese navy to move freely and quickly between its newly constructed bases in the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. × Through the project, China could have put an end to the Malacca dilemma by bypassing the Strait of Malacca, a narrow chokepoint between the Malay Peninsula and the Indonesian island of Sumatra that divides the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Big blow to China as Thailand scraps KRA canal project

Facebook&nbsp;blocked access within Thailand to a group with 1 million members that has criticised the country's king, but said it was planning a legal challenge to the government's demand that it block the group.

The move comes amid near daily youth-led protests against the government led by the former military junta chief and unprecedented calls for reforms of the monarchy.

The "Royalist Marketplace" group was created in April by Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a self-exiled academic and critic of the monarchy.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/down-with-the-dictatorship-thailand-witness-biggest-anti-government-protest-in-years-321005">'Down with the dictatorship': Thailand witness biggest anti-government protest in years</a>

On Monday night, the group's page brought up a message: "Access to this group has been restricted within Thailand pursuant to a legal request from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society."

Pavin, who lives in Japan, said&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;had bowed to the military-dominated government's pressure.

"Our group is part of a democratisation process, it is a space for freedom of expression. By doing this,&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;is cooperating with the authoritarian regime to obstruct democracy and cultivating authoritarianism in Thailand."

Pavin's new group of the same name already had over 455,000 members on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamster-hero-how-a-japanese-cartoon-became-thai-youth-protesters-symbol-317486">Hamster hero? How a Japanese cartoon became Thai youth protesters' symbol</a>

Facebook&nbsp;said on Tuesday it was planning to legally challenge the Thai government after being "compelled" to block access to the group.

"Requests like this are severe, contravene international human rights law, and have a chilling effect on people's ability to express themselves," a&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;spokesperson said.

"We work to protect and defend the rights of all internet users and are preparing to legally challenge this request."

Thailand's lese majeste laws, which forbid defaming the king, with penalties of up to 15 years in prison, is often the basis for such requests to block or remove content on social media platforms.

Earlier this month, Thailand's digital minister accused&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;of not complying with requests to restrict content, including insults to the monarchy.

On August 10, he gave&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;15 days to comply with court takedown orders or face charges under the local Computer Crime Act, which carries a fine of up to $6,368&nbsp;(200,000 baht) and an additional $160 (5,000 baht) per day until each order is observed.

Digital ministry spokesman Putchapong Nodthaisong said on Monday that&nbsp;Facebook&nbsp;cooperated before the deadline because it understood the context of Thai society.

Putchapong did not comment on&nbsp;Facebook's plan for legal action when asked by Reuters on Tuesday.

The ministry last week filed a separate cybercrime complaint against Pavin for creating the group.

Facebook blocked access within Thailand to a group with 1 million members that has criticised the country's king, but said it was planning a legal challenge to the government's demand that it block the group.

Facebook blocked access within Thailand to a group with 1 million members that has criticised the country's king, but said it was planning a legal challenge to the government's demand that it block the group. The move comes amid near daily youth-led protests against the government led by the former military junta chief and unprecedented calls for reforms of the monarchy. The "Royalist Marketplace" group was created in April by Pavin Chachavalpongpun, a self-exiled academic and critic of the monarchy. Also see: 'Down with the dictatorship': Thailand witness biggest anti-government protest in years On Monday night, the group's page brought up a message: "Access to this group has been restricted within Thailand pursuant to a legal request from the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society." Pavin, who lives in Japan, said Facebook had bowed to the military-dominated government's pressure. "Our group is part of a democratisation process, it is a space for freedom of expression. By doing this, Facebook is cooperating with the authoritarian regime to obstruct democracy and cultivating authoritarianism in Thailand." Pavin's new group of the same name already had over 455,000 members on Tuesday. Also read: Hamster hero? How a Japanese cartoon became Thai youth protesters' symbol Facebook said on Tuesday it was planning to legally challenge the Thai government after being "compelled" to block access to the group. "Requests like this are severe, contravene international human rights law, and have a chilling effect on people's ability to express themselves," a Facebook spokesperson said. "We work to protect and defend the rights of all internet users and are preparing to legally challenge this request." Thailand's lese majeste laws, which forbid defaming the king, with penalties of up to 15 years in prison, is often the basis for such requests to block or remove content on social media platforms. Earlier this month, Thailand's digital minister accused Facebook of not complying with requests to restrict content, including insults to the monarchy. On August 10, he gave Facebook 15 days to comply with court takedown orders or face charges under the local Computer Crime Act, which carries a fine of up to $6,368 (200,000 baht) and an additional $160 (5,000 baht) per day until each order is observed. Digital ministry spokesman Putchapong Nodthaisong said on Monday that Facebook cooperated before the deadline because it understood the context of Thai society. Putchapong did not comment on Facebook's plan for legal action when asked by Reuters on Tuesday. The ministry last week filed a separate cybercrime complaint against Pavin for creating the group.

Facebook planning to challenge Thai government's demand to block group critical of monarchy

Anti-government protests continue in Thailand and young demonstrators are now criticizing the Monarchy and calling for curbs on the king's powers. Watch report.

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