Report Court to Rule on UDD Leaders Over 2009 Protests Against Abhisit

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath

 

Thailand's Criminal Court is set to announce the verdict for ten key leaders of the United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD), including Veera Musigapong, Jatuporn Prompan, and Nattawut Saikua.

 

The charges stem from their roles in the 2009 protests against then-Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva's government, which included barricading government buildings and storming Prem Tinsulanonda's residence.

 

The case, filed by the Attorney General’s Office, charges the UDD leaders with unlawful assembly, causing public disorder, and violating the Emergency Decree imposed in 2005.

 

Between January 31, 2009, and April 9, 2009, the defendants allegedly mobilised protests to block government functions and pressured advisors, including General Prem, to resign, significantly disrupting Bangkok with sit-ins at key government sites.

 

The courtroom drama unfolds at Room 909 in Ratchadapisek Criminal Court. The accused, listed alphabetically, are Veerakarn Musigapong, Jatuporn Prompan, Nattawut Saikua, Dr. Weng Tojirakarn, Sira Phimkala, Narongsak Manee, Wiphuthalaeng Pattanapoomthai, Phiphat Chai Paiboon, Payap Panket, and Phongphihet Sukhjindathong. Having denied all allegations, they remain on bail, each having posted 200,000 baht (approximately £4,400).

 

The trial may throw light on issues central to Thai politics, such as the limits of free assembly and dissent. While today’s verdict will not alter Thailand’s political landscape overnight, it certainly tests the judicial climate post-2009 upheaval, reported Thai Rath.

 

Thailand’s political scene remains volatile, marked by party transitions and leadership debates. This trial is a reflection on past strategies of dissent, the responsiveness of the state, and how they will shape future political rights in the nation.

 

Stay tuned as we await further developments and analysis following today’s crucial verdict. Soon, the courtroom's decision will echo beyond its walls, charting an essential chapter in Thailand's legal and political history.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-08-20

 

[JoePai]

Why the rush   🤣