Thailand’s Top Politician Banned from Politics Amid Royal Defamation Law Controversy
Thailand’s leading reformist politician faced a major setback on Wednesday as the Constitutional Court in Bangkok issued a unanimous decision to dissolve the Move Forward Party (MFP) and impose a 10-year ban on its executive board, including former leader Pita Limjaroenrat.
Pita, who at 43 led the MFP to a surprising victory in last year’s general election, became a prominent figure by advocating for changes to Thailand’s stringent royal defamation laws. His leadership resonated with young, urban voters eager for reform.
Following the court’s decision, Pita addressed supporters, encouraging them to channel their frustrations into future elections. “Let’s take today to reflect, but tomorrow we’ll move forward and express our voices through the ballot box,” he said.
Pita’s bid for prime minister was thwarted by conservative senators, resulting in the formation of a coalition government under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.
The European Union and human rights organizations condemned the court’s ruling, arguing that it undermines democratic values in Thailand. An EU spokesperson highlighted the necessity of a diverse political landscape for a functioning democracy, while Amnesty International and the Asian Forum for Human Rights criticized the ruling as a tool of intimidation against political dissent.
Pita’s political troubles began in March when the election commission sought the dissolution of the MFP, citing the party’s push for royal defamation law reforms as an attempt to challenge the constitutional monarchy. In Thailand, lese-majeste charges are severe, reflecting the monarchy’s revered status.
Supporters of the MFP, identifiable by their trademark orange attire, gathered outside the party’s headquarters in Bangkok in response to the verdict. Emotional reactions were evident, with some expressing hope in the younger generation to restore democratic values.
Pita, who previously served in the Future Forward Party (FFP), which was dissolved in 2020, warned of the risks of judicial politicization. He pointed out that 33 political parties, including four major ones, had been dissolved over the past two decades, often as a result of judicial actions.
The MFP, which holds 148 seats in Thailand’s 500-seat parliament, plans to relaunch as a new entity. Pita, who first gained prominence with the FFP, which sparked significant protests, is determined to continue his push for reform.
The lese-majeste law remains a contentious issue, frequently used to suppress dissent. Human Rights Watch reported that in 2023 alone, at least 258 individuals faced lese-majeste charges, highlighting the ongoing use of the law to stifle political opposition.
Thailand’s history of political instability, marked by numerous coups since the end of absolute monarchy in 1932, continues to influence its current political climate.
