METROPOLITAN Police are fully ready to handle a new demonstration called by People’s Party on June 24 while pointing out that they had already filed 150 cases on the current wave of political activities, Matichon newspaper said this afternoon (June 22).
One of the key leaders of this group, Mr. Prit Chivarak, or Penguin, countered by saying if the police think they are doing the right thing they should file another 150 cases.
On the People’s Party holding a rally to mark the 89th anniversary of the June 24, 1932 revolution by the Khana Ratsadon that transformed Thailand from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy, Penguin said that many groups are are holding rallies on that day which is proof that Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha staying in power is not a good thing.
Metropolitan Police Bureau deputy commissioner Pol Maj Gen Piya Tawichai said on Monday that four groups were expected to demonstrate on Thursday, Bangkok Post said.
Penguin added that the People’s Party insists on the same three demands with these being Gen. Prayut and his group resign; Parliament immediately open an extraordinary session to accept the people’s draft constitution amendment; and monarchy reform.
Also commenting on the new rally was the Mr Krisdang Nutjarat, an attorney at the Lawyers for Human Rights Centre, who represented Penguin and 22 other People’s Party leaders at the first hearing in the Criminal Court today on the charges filed against them under Section 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lese majeste law, as well as Section 116 and other laws over demonstrations held at Sanam Luang on September 19-20, 2020.
At today’s hearing the plaintiff’s witnesses took the stand.
Krisdang said he is not concerned about the defendants attending the rally on June 24 because participation in a rally is a constitutional right.
The court continuously holds talks with him to ensure that the defendants comply with terms and conditions of their temporary release on bail but in the end the court cannot violate the constitution, he mentioned.
Other key People’s Party leaders who attended the court hearing today are Ms. Panusaya Sitthichirawattanakul, or Rung, Mr. Panupong Chadnok, or Mike Rayong, Mr. Jarupat Boonpattararaksa, or Phai Dao Din and Mr. Chaiamorn Kaewwiboonpan, a popular singer who goes by the professional name of Ammy the Bottom Blues.
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Penguin and the other People’s Party leaders at Criminal Court on Ratchadapisek road today. Photos: Matichon
