Friday, July 1, 2011 - 12:30
On April 30 Somyot Pruksakasemsuk, a journalist and labour activist, was arrested. He is facing up to 15 years in prison under the law of lese majeste (defaming, insulting or threatening the royal family).
These laws have been used by the present Thai government, headed by Abhisit Vejjajiva, to crack down on dissent and protest activities.
This repression is targeted at labour and human right activists, journalists and supporters of the popular-based Red Shirt movement.
There are currently hundreds of Thai activists detained under these laws. Many others are in exile overseas.
Thai Consulate, 566 St Kilda Rd, Prahran.