Politics Thai Court Delays Verdict in UDD Leaders' Protest Case

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

In a closely watched legal saga, the Thai Criminal Court has postponed its verdict in the case against ten leaders of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD). The charges relate to protests against the administration of then Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. Originally scheduled for Wednesday, the ruling is now set for 7th October, due to the absence of some defendants.

 

The group stands accused of engaging in unlawful assembly, inciting public disorder, and breaching an emergency decree during mass demonstrations in Bangkok from 31st January to 9th April 2009. Despite facing serious allegations, all defendants denied the charges and were released on bail, each set at 200,000 Thai Baht.

 

The protests, led by the defendants, involved actions such as blockading Government House and other key government offices, effectively interrupting official operations. Demonstrators also marched to the residence of the late General Prem Tinsulanonda, then President of the Privy Council, demanding his resignation.

 

Among those present at the court on Wednesday were figureheads Veerakarn Musikapong, Jatuporn Prompan, Nattawut Saikuar, Dr Weng Tojirakarn, and Phayap Punkate. Dr Weng, accompanied by his wife and former UDD President Tida Tawornseth, expressed his readiness to accept the court's decision, showing no public apprehension regarding the verdict.

 

Jatuporn Prompan, who currently leads the United Front to Defend Thai Sovereignty, emphasised that despite any political differences, the group harboured no animosity towards each other. Nattawut Saikuar, now a government adviser, refrained from making comments to the press.

 

The delay in the court’s decision prolongs the uncertainty surrounding this high-profile case, which continues to captivate the nation. The upcoming verdict may rekindle debates around freedom of assembly and the political climate in Thailand during the late 2000s. With both the defendants and public awaiting the next court date, all eyes remain on how this influential case will conclude.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-21

 

[redwood1]

A 16 year old case? I would think the statute of limitations would make this case to old to prosecute....

[mfd101]

So, Paetongtarn can expect her verdict around 2041? 

 

No hurry, This is the Tropics.