Law
Court Sentences Activist 'Tawan' to Prison in Lese-Majeste Case
The Criminal Court has sentenced activist Tantawan 'Tawan' Tuatulanon to two years in prison following a 2022 livestream incident, while granting her bail pending appeal.
On August 31, 2026, the Criminal Court in Bangkok delivered a verdict in the case of Tantawan 'Tawan' Tuatulanon, a former leader of the Thalu Wang group. According to Khaosod Online Thailand, the court sentenced the defendant to three years in prison for violating Article 112 of the Criminal Code (lese-majeste) and the Computer Crimes Act, stemming from a March 2022 incident where she livestreamed near a royal motorcade route.
Following the presentation of evidence, the court reduced the sentence by one-third due to mitigating factors, resulting in a final prison term of two years. Additionally, she was fined 900 baht for failing to comply with official orders. Following the ruling, the court granted her bail for 100,000 baht, with the condition that she is prohibited from leaving the country.
For residents and travelers, this case highlights the ongoing legal scrutiny surrounding public demonstrations and digital content related to the monarchy. While the defendant has been granted bail, the legal proceedings remain active as the case moves through the appellate process. Observers should note that the court’s decision to impose travel restrictions is a standard condition for bail in high-profile cases. Further developments regarding the appeal process remain to be confirmed.