Parit goes on hunger strike as trial of 22 protesters begins
Detained pro-democracy leader Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak declared a hunger strike on Monday, as the trial of 22 activists got underway at the Bangkok Criminal Court.
Parit, 22, is among seven defendants being held in custody after bail release was denied. He said he would not eat until the court grants him temporary release in line with his basic rights. Meanwhile, the court granted permission for three other detained Ratsadon activists – Panupong “Mike” Jadnok, Jatupat “Pai Dao Din” Boonpattararaksa, and Piyarat “Toto” Chongthep – to be moved from Thonburi Remand Prison to Bangkok Remand Prison in Chatuchak district as per their lawyer’s request.
“The court’s decision takes effect immediately, so the three will be transported to the new location today,” said Krisadang Nutjaras, a lawyer from the Thai Lawyers for Human Rights Centre.
The defendants face charges ranging from sedition to lese majeste for their roles in anti-establishment rallies held at several locations last year.
The court also set a date of April 19 to examine the evidence in Parit’s case. He is charged with sedition over his role in a rally at Democracy Monument on July 18 last year.