Politics
Political Activist Files Lèse-Majesté Complaint Against Opposition MP
Sontiya Sawasdee has filed a formal complaint against Move Forward Party MP Rukchanok Srinork, alleging violations of Article 112 and the Computer Crime Act.
On August 18, 2026, political activist Sontiya Sawasdee visited the Central Investigation Bureau to file a formal complaint against Rukchanok Srinork, a Member of Parliament from the People's Party. According to Khaosod Online, the complaint alleges that the MP violated Article 112 of the Criminal Code and the Computer Crime Act.
Sontiya claims that a social media post by Rukchanok featured a video clip of a local administrative official discussing a specific individual. He alleges that the MP added phrases and royal vocabulary—specifically the word 'tras'—to the post, which he argues is reserved exclusively for royalty or the Buddha. Sontiya contends that this usage clearly identifies the subject of the post and constitutes a breach of the law. He further stated his intention to petition the public prosecutor to revoke the MP's bail.
For residents and visitors, this development highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding political discourse and the application of lèse-majesté laws in Thailand. While this is a formal legal complaint, it remains to be confirmed how the police will proceed with the investigation and whether the prosecutor will take action regarding the request to revoke bail. Observers should note that legal proceedings of this nature can lead to prolonged political and judicial scrutiny.