Thanathorn Cleared in Thai Section 112 Case

Thailand’s Criminal Court has acquitted Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit in a lese-majeste case linked to a Facebook Live broadcast criticising the government’s Covid-19 vaccine procurement policy. The ruling removes the threat of criminal penalties under Section 112 and the Computer Crime Act against the Progressive Movement chairman.

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The court delivered its verdict at Courtroom 814 of the Criminal Court at 9am on 28 May 2026. Prosecutors had accused Thanathorn of defaming or insulting the monarchy during a livestream on 18 January 2021 titled “Royal Vaccines: Who Gains and Who Loses”. The broadcast criticised the Prayut Chan-o-cha government’s handling of Covid-19 vaccine supplies and referred to Siam Bioscience and vaccine procurement arrangements.

Thanathorn denied all charges and fought the case while on bail. Arriving at court before the ruling, he smiled, raised a clenched fist and told reporters he remained “in good spirits” before entering the building.

Supporters gathered outside the Criminal Court to encourage Thanathorn during the hearing. Among those attending was former Move Forward Party list MP Amarat Chokepamitkul.

In its judgment, the court ruled that the livestream referred to then-prime minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha and his administration’s management of Covid-19 vaccines, rather than constituting criticism or insult directed at the monarchy. The court also found that references to Siam Bioscience were factual and did not amount to defamation.

The ruling stated that Thanathorn’s comments questioned whether the prime minister could handle vaccine management effectively, adding that the public would suffer if the administration failed in its duties. Judges concluded that his actions did not amount to defamation, insult or threats against the monarchy under Section 112, nor did they violate the Computer Crime Act.

The case stemmed from heightened scrutiny of public discussion surrounding vaccine procurement during the Covid-19 pandemic. Authorities argued that the livestream distorted information and could lead the public to misunderstand issues connected to the monarchy and Siam Bioscience.

ThaiRath reported that the aacquittal is likely to draw attention because Section 112 cases remain politically sensitive in Thailand. No immediate indication was given on whether prosecutors would appeal the verdict.

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath

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Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 29 May 2026