Govt warns of danger of disunity

THE GOVERNMENT yesterday urged citizens to unify as the country mourns the passing of His Majesty the King rather than fight to bring down the monarchy.

“The government wants to remind all people to consider the general atmosphere of the country, with many people deep in sorrow. Our nation needs unity and a better understanding among people in order to overcome the difficult time together,” said government Spokesman Maj-General Sansern Kaewkamnerd.
“The premier understands the feeling of the people and their loyalty to the monarchy but no one should bring the institution of the monarchy into their conflict,” he said, adding that authorities would prosecute wrongdoers in accordance with the law.
Sansern raised the government’s concern after people accused each other of acting disrespectfully or insulting the monarchy. Many people have shamed or humiliated others or even physically hurt them if they were perceived as not showing sufficient respect for the late King. 
“Many people might be worried or concerned about messages on social media such as bomb threats or rumours that provocative content was posted by military officials. That is not true,” he said, urging people to rely on official statements in the mainstream media. 
The government will not use social media for official announcements, he said. 
Meanwhile, police yesterday urged people not to post or share lese majeste content on social media in order to prevent social disorder and legal consequences.
Many suspects have been charged with lese majeste under Article 112 of the Penal Code for posting the contents deemed insulting to the monarchy, according to Deputy Police Commissioner Pol General Sriwarah Rangsipramkul. “I have to handle four to five cases by myself,” he told reporters yesterday.
Authorities have closely monitored discussions and posts about the monarchy after the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on October 13. 
Earlier this week, National police chief Pol General Chakthip Chaijinda said police had arrested more than 12 suspects, issued eight arrest warrants and were preparing to file two charges regarding lese majeste cases since the passing of the King.
Justice Minister Paiboon Koomchaya has signed letters to be sent to seven foreign countries where 19 Thai fugitives who are wanted on lese majeste charges are staying in the latest attempt to force their return to Thailand.
Later yesterday, an 18-year-old Facebook user was arrested after posting an allegedly defamatory message about the monarchy in Sakaew province’s Watthana Nakhon district. The male teenager confessed to police that he posted the content under the pseudonym of “Kai Off”, but claimed that he did it unwittingly after ingesting marijuana. 
Police charged him with lese majeste and possession of an illicit narcotic.