Thai prosecutors have formally charged labor activist Somyot Pruksakasemsuk over two articles in a magazine he edited – which allegedly insulted the nation’s king, according to the Bangkok Post and the Cardjin Community website.

Somyot, who is a former Thailand Young Christian Workers fulltimer, was charged with lese majeste after he had been already imprisoned for 84 days, the maximum number of days that a prisoner can be held without charge under Thai law, the reports said.

Somyot told the paper that the incoming government to be led by Yingluck Shinawatra seemed content to work under existing draconian legal and social settings.

In a statement, Cardijn Community International president Stefan Gigacz called for Somyot’s release and for the dropping of charges.

“Whether of not we agree with Somyot’s political options, it is time for Thailand to heal the divisions of recent years.

“Somyot has worked tirelessly for the benefit of Thai workers for many years. It is deeply regrettable that he should now face many years in jail for his commitment,” Mr Gigacz said.

FULL STORY

Somyot formally charged (Cardjin Community)

Somyot pleads for tolerance (Bangkok Post)

PHOTO CREDIT

Screenshot from an interview with Somyot Pruksakasemsuk on YouTube