A DIALOGUE ON LAW

Since military courts are no longer featured in the news, the Internet Dialogue on Law Reform (iLaw) will be running a short programme, from Friday to Sunday, to refresh memories.

Last September, Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha invoked Section 44 of the interim charter to do away with the long-decried practice of trying civilians in military courts. However, more than 500 pending cases will be moving forward.

On the three days, human rights advocacy group iLaw will hold simulations of military court trials, inviting participants and audience members to be witnesses.

Military courts since t he 2014 coup have higher conviction rates and are far harder to appeal than the courts of justice. They are also known for their secrecy and opaque proceedings — a silence that iLaw intends to break with its panel discussions involving former defendants who will share their own experiences.

National Human Rights Commission member Angkhana Neelapaijit and lawyer Krisadang Nutcharut, a former Oct 6 activist, will talk about the importance of bringing civilians’ cases still with the military courts back under the courts of justice’s jurisdiction.

Aside from the simulations and talks, the South Korean film Byeon-ho-in ( The Attorney), a courtroom drama on a case of government brutality, will be screened on Saturday.

Activities will take place from Friday to Sunday at Pridi Banomyong Institute on Thong Lor. Military courts simulations will take place every day from 2.30-3.30pm, followed by the forum discussions and film screenings.