A DEMONSTRATION was held in front of Bangkok Remand Prison late afternoon today (Jan. 3) by the Songwriters for the People group to demand the release of political activists detained without bail, Matichon newspaper said.
Led by Mr. Chokdee Rompruek, or Alek, the group tied vinyl signs on power poles and posted them on the prison wall with various messages including, “Free our Friends, “Abolish 112,” “#Confirm the ceiling, speak with your heart, speak with music,” and “Reclaiming justice for our friends.”
They also displayed photos of jailed protest leaders including Mr. Parit Chivarak, or Penguin, Mr. Jarupat Boonpattararaksa, or Phai Dao Din, Mr. Anon Nampha, Mr. Panupong Chadnok, or Mike Rayong, and Ms. Benja Apan.
From 4.30 p.m. onwards Alex and a male friend played some songs with the participants giving the three-finger salute.
Later Mr. Jetsada Sriplang, or James, from the Nonthaburi New Generation group, told the crowd that two demonstrators were released on bail on New Year’s Eve, namely Mr. Kachen Thongdonsa, 19, and Mr. Kajonsak Sangmuang, 18.
He added that Mr. Atavit Suwannaphakdi, secretary-general of Kla Party, had said he does not support the amendment of Section 112 of the Criminal Code, or the lese majeste law, but it will be considered by a scrutiny committee.
He suggested that detained political activists facing charges under this law, such as Anon Nampha, Penguin and Mike Rayong, be included as committee members, questioning whether the panel would be neutral without them.
CAPTION:
Songwriters’ rally in front of Bangkok Remand Prison today. Thai headline says, “Suggested Mike, Anon and Penguin.” Photo: Matichon
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