Cleric defrocked for slamming Muslims

National security concerns are behind the defrocking of an outspoken monk who harshly criticised Muslims, Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon says. But he insisted the man had agreed to be defrocked.

On Wednesday evening, police brought Phra Apichart Punnajanto from Wat Dok Soi in Ranot district of Songkhla to Wat Benchamabophit in Bangkok for defrocking after the monk posted online video clips criticising Muslim people following recent bomb blasts in the far South which killed two explosive ordnance disposal officers and caused scores of injuries.

Police, who later brought the ex-monk to the Crime Suppression Division, refused to comment, but confirmed he was facing charges related to security affairs.

The authorities say his act breached the Computer Crime Act.

The authorities’ move sparked criticism from some Buddhist activist groups, who questioned whether authorities had over-reacted.

The Thailand Buddhists Federation yesterday condemned the regime for holding the ex-monk in an army camp and “forcing him to defrock”.

The association also said the government arbitrarily exercised its power which showed a lack of respect for the Thai Buddhist institution.

Gen Prawit, also defence minister, insisted the ex-monk was not taken by soldiers to a military camp as claimed by the media. Police had dealt with the matter, he said.

He said the ex-monk’s criticisms affected national security affairs.

Meanwhile, PM’s Office Minister Ormsin Chivapruck, overseeing the National Office of Buddhism, yesterday said he was aware of reports in the media but he had no knowledge of any further details.

Mr Apichart’s act was regarded as personal offence. Further action would depend on a police investigation. It was unclear last night whether he faces immediate charges.

Mr Ormsin said the Sangha Supreme Council had to build an understanding with monks nationwide on the issue to maintain peace and prevent possible conflict among religions.

Forging an understanding was especially important with those served as instructors, since negative criticisms “could result in an adverse affect”. When he was a monk, Mr Apichart spoke out on many issues involving violence in the far South.