Govt hits back over UN statement targeting Article 61
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The junta government has responded sharply to a United Nations’ rights expert who condemned its clampdown on public comment ahead of the August poll through military orders and the Referendum Act.
“Everyone must have the right to hold opinions without interference,” said David Kaye, UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression in a press release issued by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
The press release stressed the act’s Article 61 for criminalising anyone who disseminates “false”, “rude”, “inciting” or “intimidating” messages concerning the referendum and the charter draft. The punishment specified is up to 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of Bt200,000 and loss of voting rights for 10 years.
The junta government responded that these penalties were suitable to Thailand’s “[political] transitory period” that required “special” laws to keep the country in order.
Government Deputy Spokesperson Maj-General Werachon Sukondhapatipak claimed the government adhered to international rights principles and never obstructed public expression of opinion on the draft.
“Should you be worried, as stated in the press release, we are concerned about the appropriateness of personal opinions that may infringe Thai laws,” Werachon said. He added the government was willing to listen to suggestions “if they are useful”.
