Bangkok (Thailand), 24 Aug. (LaPresse/AP) – An amnesty for political offences committed in Thailand over the last twenty years came into force today, but the law excludes some of the most serious cases, including those relating to lèse-majesté. The amnesty was introduced to promote reconciliation following a period of political instability, violent protests and military coups in the past, and could affect around 6,000 people, according to estimates put forward in Parliament. However, the exclusion of lèse-majesté offences has drawn criticism that the amnesty will not truly resolve political divisions. The Law on the Promotion of a Peaceful Society was passed by a final vote in Parliament in July and was published yesterday in the Royal Gazette. A commission chaired by the Prime Minister will determine who is eligible for the amnesty. The commission is due to hold its first meeting within 30 days.
Thailand. Political amnesty in force: those convicted of lèse-majesté are excluded
Bangkok (Thailand), 24 Aug. (LaPresse/AP) – An amnesty for political offences committed in Thailand over the last twenty years came into force today, but the law excludes some of the most serious cases, including those relating to lèse-majesté. The amnesty was introduced to promote reconciliation following a period of political instability, violent protests and military coups in the past, and could affect around 6,000 people, according to estimates put forward in Parliament. However, the exclusion of lèse-majesté offences has drawn criticism that the amnesty will not truly resolve political divisions. The Law on the Promotion of a Peaceful Society was passed by a final vote in Parliament in July and was published yesterday in the Royal Gazette. A commission chaired by the Prime Minister will determine who is eligible for the amnesty. The commission is due to hold its first meeting within 30 days.