Events since the May 2014 coup convince me that Thailand is now becoming
more dictatorial, particularly when the political system is still under the
auspices of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
He and his advisers set the rules and the law. He appoints and approves
people to all the nation’s important positions, filling them with cronies loyal
to him. He does not seem to care what the international community thinks.
The
misunderstood “constitutional monarchy”, as it is currently called, is often
thought of in similar terms as systems like Japan and England. Nothing could be
further from the truth.
The
current Thai constitution states the King has the ultimate say – no matter
which political party wins an election. All the relevant sections of each of
the country’s constitutions clearly indicate that in Thailand the ultimate
power lies with the king.
As such,
it is unfortunate that the Thai King keeps a low profile and rarely speaks. The
people do not know him or his mindset. And due to Article 112 of the criminal
code, the notorious lese majeste law, people are not allowed to talk about or
question him. Only praise and favourable comments are allowed.
With all
the sovereign powers bestowed upon him under the constitution, one would
believe that the King should be responsible for the welfare of the people. Once
again, nothing could be further from the truth.
He is not
held accountable for anything.
This is
why I have to speak out against the regime and the Thai monarchy; even though I
have been threatened by Thai royalist thugs constantly at home and at work, and
through social media messages.
As the
Thai King is known to have poor health, I wish that he would do one good deed
for the Thai people before he dies, abolishing Article 112 from the Thai
criminal code once and for all.
Further,
he should order General Prayuth Chan-ocha, the current self-appointed prime
minister, to set free all lese majeste prisoners and dismiss all pending cases.
He should leave this legacy before he dies for the world to see that he does
care for his people after all.
My family
back home have disowned me and all my friends are too afraid to have anything
to do with me, because I was charged with violating Article 112.
I hope
that just someday soon and with the help of peace and democracy loving nations
around the world, we will see a true democracy in Thailand.
If not,
Thai people will continue to suffer for another generation to come.
Chatwadee Rose Amornpat is based in London.
She was charged with lese majeste by the Thai military junta in July 2014. For
previous New Mandala coverage of her situation
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