Political detainees ‘need bail’

The opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) has renewed calls for bail to be granted to political detainees in response to an ongoing hunger strike by two hospitalised political activists.

Detained activists Tantawan “Tawan” Tuatulanon and Orawan “Bam” Phupong have been on a hunger strike since Jan 19 as part of their demands for the release of all political prisoners.

Associate Professor Dr Pharuhat TorUdom, director of Thammasat University Hospital, said the two are not in a serious condition but are still refusing to eat and drink properly.

This comes as MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat yesterday lodged a motion requesting a debate on what he described as the urgent need for Thailand to strictly follow the international principle of the presumption of innocence.

The proposed debate would also focus on how political detainees should be treated just like other detainees when it comes to considering their bail application.

The debate would also cover how those prosecuted in political cases since 2014 should be granted amnesty, including those facing legal action for allegedly violating lese majeste and sedition laws.

The Cross Cultural Foundation will submit an open letter today to the president of the Supreme Court asking for a review of court regulations pertaining to bail applications. The foundation is also calling for the release of the two hunger strikers as well as over 15 other detainees who should be freed so they can prepare to fight their political cases in court.

Justice Minister Somsak Thepsutin said the ministry will consider reforming the court’s bail application consideration system and liaise with the National Human Rights Commission to ensure that any amendments to the law are done appropriately.