BANGKOK: Two‑Year Lock‑up for a Queen‑Like Protester
Jatuporn “New” Saeoueng, a 25‑year‑old transgender activist, just got a two‑year sentence for allegedly “mocking the monarchy.” It all started during a 2020 street protest in Bangkok where she strutted around dressed in what others read as a homage to Queen Suthida.
What the Law Says
In Thailand, the lèse‑majesté law is one of the toughest in the world. A single act of defamation or insult toward the king, queen, heir, or regent can land you up to 15 years behind bars.
The Custodial Twist
- Jatuporn was found guilty by a court after a careful review of her protest performance.
- She wore a traditional pink silk dress under a red umbrella—a gesture that’s, according to some, an exaggerated homage to the queen.
- Her lawyer, Krisadang Nutcharat, insists she’s been painting a portrait of Thai traditional dress, not a satire.
- Despite the claim of innocence, the court decided the act was “defamatory” to the monarchy.
- She’ll be serving her sentence in a women’s prison.
Context: Reforms, Military, and a Modern Siam
Since 2020, at least 210 activists have faced accusations of insulting the royal family amid protests pushing for deeper reforms—particularly targeting the king’s expansive powers.
Following the 2016 death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, his son King Maha Vajiralongkorn ascended the throne. Critics claim his rule emboldens acts like recurrent military coups, while the army denies any foul play. The king even declared direct control over the crown’s wealth and two army units—moves that sparked additional friction.
Royal Reactions
The palace has remained tight‑lipped. In a 2020 interview, the king said, “We love them all the same,” when asked to comment on protesters. Still, the monarchy’s reaction to the latest sentence remains quiet.
A Quick Word on the Verdict
While courts in Thailand rarely disclose details, the conviction underscores how rigid the country’s royal defamation law is. It’s a stark reminder that even a seemingly harmless display of traditional garb can land someone in the guillotine of Thai justice.
“Jatuporn has denied the charges all along and says she normally wears traditional Thai dress,” Krisadang told Reuters. “But the court sees it as mockery and serves the sentence accordingly.”
Now the activist plans to appeal—because who doesn’t love a little courtroom drama?
