PHRA Phayom, the abbot of Wat Suan Kaew in Nonthaburi province, asked for alms in the form of the lives of Mr. Prit Chivarak, or Penguin, and Ms. Panusaya Sitthichirawattanakul, or Rung, who both went on a hunger strike after being detained when bail was rejected over charges of violating Section 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lese majeste law,Amarin TV said today (April 18).
Speaking during a recording of an interview, the abbot also said rumours that Penguin had died in prison were not true.
He added that he wanted the two of them to live to see change occur, just as the sky changes its hue after a rain.
While mentioning that should the two protest leaders die the Thai justice system would be tarnished, he also pointed out that there are people there afraid of certain things and he wanted both Penguin and Rung to live to see the change that will take place on their own.
Regarding Penguin’s condition, who has been on a protest fast since March 13, Phra Phayom said he has lost 20 kilogrammes but is still in general good condition, able to talk. However he is weak and his lips dry but he does not suffer from dizziness or angina.
He is still able to walk but someone has to help him get up and go about his daily activities.
He has refused further intravenous drip, but drinks mineral water.
Phra Phayom begged everyone to tell the whole world that people here are trapped, pointing out whether it is too much to ask to be released.
He wants the world to know about what is taking place here and to make a big campaign out of it.
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Top and Home Page: Phra Phayom together with Penguin and Rung in this composite image. Thai headline says, “spar their lives as alms.” Photo: Amari TV
