Thailand protesters face draconian charges of insulting the monarchy

Thailand’s authorities are facing severe criticism for charging pro-democracy leaders who criticised King Maha Vajiralongkorn during protests in September and October, even as activists started gathering in Bangkok on Wednesday for another major rally.

At least 15 protest leaders have been summoned on lese majeste charges (laws related to insulting the monarchy) over their comments regarding the king's behaviour, lifestyle and spending.

The pro-democracy protesters who have been summoned by police include the high-profile human rights lawyer Anon Nampa, as well as Parit Chiwarak, Panupong Chadnok, Tattep Runagprapaikitseree, Piyarat Chongthep, Juthathip Sirikan, and Pasarawalee Thanakitwibulpol, among others.

Human rights groups and activists have urged the authorities to refrain from prosecuting the protest leaders under the lese majeste charges, which come with strict punishments.