Thai Appeals Court Hands Harsh Prison Sentences in Politically Charged Royal Motorcade Case

In a troubling reflection of the dangers posed when state power is used to suppress fundamental freedoms, Thailand’s appeals court has overturned earlier acquittals and sentenced five pro-democracy activists to prison terms ranging from 16 to over 21 years. The charges stem from an incident on October 14, 2020, where protesters allegedly impeded the royal motorcade carrying Queen Suthida during demonstrations calling for democratic reforms. Are Judicial Powers Being Weaponized Against Democracy? This verdict reveals how deeply entrenched royalist influence distorts justice and undermines liberty in Thailand. While the original court found insufficient evidence to convict these individuals — a...