Thailand’s Lese Majeste Law: The Death of a Female Activist in Prison

Thailand’s lese majeste law, which prohibits any criticism of the monarchy, carries severe penalties and has been increasingly enforced since the 2014 military coup. While the government claims it’s necessary to protect the monarchy, the law has sparked criticism for its harshness and stifling of free speech.

Sanesangkhom, a female Thai activist who has joined pro-democracy protests challenging the monarchy’s power since 2020, was arrested on Jan. 26. She faced seven criminal cases, including a lese majeste case filed against her for holding up a banner questioning the inconvenience caused by a royal procession in a Bangkok mall in 2022. Another lese majeste charge stems from a similar protest where she questioned the king’s unrestricted use of power.

While awaiting trial, Sanesangkhom began a 65-day hunger strike to protest her and other dissidents’ detention. Despite declining health, her bail requests were denied. Thailand’s Corrections Department said her death was caused by a “sudden cardiac arrest.” An autopsy is underway to determine the exact cause of death.

In an open letter penned while in jail, Sanesangkhom said she realized the injustices in the country while growing up as a judge’s daughter.