THE TWO female political detainees who have been on an severe hunger strike since Jan. 18 today (Feb. 16) started taking potassium as if this mineral drops too low the heart muscles are affected with the doctors concerned about the effect of extreme malnutrition and pointed out they need urgent treatment, Matichon newspaper said today (Feb. 16).
The two of them, Tantawan “Tawan” Tuatulanond and Orawan “Bam” Pupong, who are facing lese majeste charges and have refused to drink water or eat food provided in prison or at the Thammasat Hospital since the start of the protest fast in order get political detainees released on bail, had accepted saline drip on Feb. 6.
A lawyer who visited them yesterday said they were both alert and aware of what was going on but are more fatigued and now showing symptoms of anaemia.
They were concerned about Mr. Sophon “Get” Surarittamrong, who is also facing lese majeste charges and has started refraining from sleeping in support of their demands, and another political activist Ms. Nattanich “Bai Por” Duangmusit as well as the others being detained.
They pointed out that the court had not found them guilty and they were all defending themselves yet are not allowed to lead a normal life.
Their demands are as follows:
– Reform the justice system;
– Release political detainees;
– Political parties state a policy to amend section 112, also known as the lese majeste law, and section 116 of the Criminal Code.
CAPTION:
Tantawan Tuatulanond and Orawan Pupong are holding a severe hunger strike after a roadside protest where they pour red dye, representing blood, over their head and body. Photos: Matichon
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