Amnesty Chairwoman Says Military’s Criminal Suit Was Just the Start

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February 22, 2017 9:36 pm

Pornpen Khongkachonkiet, second from right, speaks with a family member of one alleged fatal victim of military torture in May 2016 at a military base in Pattani province. Photo: Pornpen Khongkachonkiet / Courtesy

BANGKOK — A criminal defamation charge is just part of what one of three human rights defenders accused of defaming the army is facing for reporting torture allegations in the Deep South.

Anchana Heemmina, a Muslim human rights defender based in Songkhla province, said her mom gets visits from the army and she has been verbally attacked and harassed on social media since she and two colleagues worked on a report recounting 54 people’s stories of torture at the hands of security forces in the south.

“[They] accused me of supporting violence and armed groups. This is what I faced, besides being summoned to talk [to the army],” she said, adding that other allegations include exaggerating or distorting the situation in the southernmost provinces where an intractable insurgency has claimed thousands of lives.

Read: 2016 Another Year of Restricted Rights in Thailand – Amnesty International

Anchana’s remarks came Wednesday at a symposium launching Amnesty International’s annual report on global human rights.

The army has sued Anchana, veteran human rights lawyer Somchai Hom-laor and rights activist Pornpen Khongkachonkiet for defaming the army by publishing and disseminating the report last year.

When the report was released one year ago, Col. Pramote Promin, a spokesman for the Internal Security Operation Command, or ISOC, dismissed it as a figment of its authors’ imaginations. He accused Pornpen of wanting to discredit the army and state.

Anchana said it’s not just torture people there face, but children are victimized by being subjected to DNA testing and informal interrogations. She added that young children sometimes end held in detention cells for up to three hours while their mothers await bail.

Despite possible sentences of seven years in prison, Anchana said the last thing she and her two colleagues will do is to reveal the identities of the alleged torture victims whose stories were recounted in the report published by Pornpen’s Cross Cultural Foundation that Anchana’s Duay Jai Group and legal adviser Somchai helped prepare.

The case against the three has attracted considerable international attention and was a topic of particular interest at the Amnesty discussion. Pornpen, who became chairwoman of Amnesty International Thailand after she was sued, said it remains a mystery to her why the army is pursuing the case.

“I don’t know how we got to this point – facing a possible seven years imprisonment,” Pornpen said. “My mother supports my work and told me I can do whatever I like, but don’t go to jail.”

In a sign of differing opinions within government agencies, the director general of the Rights and Liberties Promotion Department, Pitikarn Sithidej, was present and wished the three defendants luck in their legal battle.

Human Rights Activists Refuse to Hand Over Names of Alleged Torture Victims

Torture in Deep South Systematic and Spreading Elsewhere, Rights Groups Allege

Out of Options, School Fire Families Pursue Lawsuits on Their Own

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Teeranai Charuvastra, News Chief

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February 22, 2017 5:33 pm

A distraught mother searches the burned-out dorm of Pitakkiat Witthaya school on May 24 for belongings of her daughter who died in the fire.

CHIANG RAI — Having exhausted all other legal channels, parents who lost their young daughters when their school dorm burned down last year in Chiang Rai will seek justice on their own.

Public prosecutors declined to take up their case Monday, and with police previously ruling out criminal charges for the fire that killed 19 children at the Pitakkiat Wittaya School, the families said they have no choice but to file criminal complaints in the hope someone will be held liable.

“They feel hopeless,” said Nattapol Singhtuen, an activist with the children’s welfare foundation that has been assisting the families. “The investigation didn’t go anywhere. It concluded that it was an unpreventable accident, and no one took responsibility.”

Read: Parents Held Big Dreams for Children Lost in Fire. Now They Want Answers.

Nineteen students died in the May 22 fire at the dormitory of Pitakkiat Wittaya School, an all-girls boarding school for children of impoverished families in the mountainous region. The establishment is run by a Christian charity called Panthakit Suksan Foundation.

No alarms were raised, as the dormitory lacked smoke detectors, fire alarms or any adult supervision as required by law.

Despite that fact, police investigators ruled the blaze an unpreventable accident in June. Officials said the building predated fire safety regulations and was therefore exempt from providing such provisions.

Outraged by the police judgment, families of the victims asked the public prosecutor to look into the matter and take up the case without police involvement. On Tuesday the prosecutor gave the same answer: The fire was caused by a faulty light bulb, an accident “not caused by anyone.”

“Combined with other evidence and witness testimony, we concluded that it was an accident that was not caused by anyone,” prosecutor Chalermkiat Chaiyawan said Tuesday. “There is no evidence or witness warranting a suspect [of a crime].”

Somchart Pipattaradol, who heads the legal department at the Mirror Foundation, said after meeting with the victims’ families that they will go ahead with their own lawsuit. He said they will point out fire safety flaws at the school dorm such as a lack of fire escapes.

Rewat Wassana, director of Pitakkiat Witthaya School, said Wednesday he hadn’t heard about the lawsuit, but was unconcerned because the fire took place in the sleeping hall run by the Panthakit Suksan charity group.

“Our school is not involved in this,” Rewat said. “The incident didn’t happen at the school, but at the charity dorm … it’s a different site.”

One parent reached for comment Wednesday said he hasn’t consulted with the foundation about the pending legal action.

“I can’t think of a solution right now,” said a distraught-sounding Winai Pisailert, whose 11-year-old daughter died in the fire.

Nattapol, another Mirror Foundation activist, said the families will name as defendants the Panthakit Suksan charity group and whoever was responsible for taking care of the children at the time of the accident.

He expects the suits to be filed in March in both criminal and civil courts.

No Smoke Detectors in Dorm Where 17 Schoolgirls Died

Engineers Cast Doubt on Police ‘Light Bulb’ Explanation For Deadly School Fire

Thailand’s Newest Province Bueng Kan is New Hope for Rubber Innovation

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Khaosod English

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February 22, 2017 5:00 pm

Up in Bueng Kan, local farmers and entrepreneurs are leading the way to create a booming rubber industry by learning to embrace new technologies.

At the weeklong Bueng Kan Red Cross and Rubber Day 2017 which wraps up today, Wednesday at the Bueng Kan City Hall, Gov. Pisut Busayapanpong said local rubber farmers and entrepreneurs need not depend on macro-scale industrial factories, but can thrive as small business enterprises if they are equipped with the right tech and know-how.

Pisut said farmers in the 6-year-old province can look to the successes in southern Thailand, where rubber trees, balls and leaves are being processed into new, high-value products such as furniture made from wood substitute rubberwood.

แข่งกรีดยาง — Rubber tapping competition

The methods are within reach to families or even groups of workers. Pisut described how one couple from Surat Thani province started making rubber-coated gloves which went on to sell well in domestic and international markets, including a Swedish government purchase of 6,000 pairs.

The challenge is passing on the tech smarts to innovate, as many in Bueng Kan are unfamiliar with the new tools.

“So many people, even in the new generation, still don’t know the meaning of ‘innovation,’” said Ekkapong Musikacharoen. “I think it will take time for people to understand that their rubber can be made into different products, not just raw materials.”

Ekkapong, a local director from the SciTech Ministry, added that local farmers will have to “change the way they produce.”

The starting point will be workshops which share knowledge of basic procedures and techniques such as production of quality rubber latex from fertilizer, ammonia-free water preservation and making rubber-coated gloves.

Ekkapong said the goal is very reachable for Bueng Kan, as it’s status as a tourist attraction and proximity to Laos, another big market for rubber, put it at an advantage.

Ekkapong wants to see more events like this past week’s fair.

“We could bring rubber academics and researchers from other provinces to provide knowledge and information to these farmers, so [Bueng Kan] can be truly become the City of Rubber,” he said.

This is a paid advertorial. Khaosod English is not responsible for its content or claims.

New Info Act Will be Faster. But Will it Shine More Light?

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Sasiwan Mokkhasen, Staff Reporter

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February 22, 2017 4:06 pm

An undated file photo of Prawit Wongsuwan and his entourage in Hawaii. Image: Matichon

BANGKOK — It took four months before Khaosod English got the names of those who went on a controversial, Defense Ministry tour to Hawaii, but drafters of the new Public Information Act say it will cut response times down to 15 days.

That was one feature touted Wednesday by the junta-appointed reform assembly as it rolled out its efforts to improve access to public information held by the government. The body is still reviewing the bill, and questions remain how much it will upgrade the efficiency of the 1997 law it will replace.

The draft presented at the parliament more broadly defines “public information” as any kind of information obtained from a government resource for public benefit, whether from government or personal records.

In one notable improvement, the draft specifies how officials must make the information available, including mandatory publishing on government websites.

In a bureaucracy where many processes seem to take 60 to 90 days, the bill would require officials satisfy requests within 15 days. They can request extensions, but not for more than 30 days.

The draft, however, still holds the same exceptions for information exempted from disclosure, such as anything deemed potentially harmful to the monarchy, national security or international relations.

The vague definition of “national security” was a main concern of members of the public attending Wednesday’s discussion, including a speaker from an investigative journalism organization.

“As we have seen, national security is often brought up as an excuse for not revealing information,” Sarinee Achavanuntakul of ThaiPublica said.

Another major concern, raised by a Supreme Administrative Court judge, was that the committee which will handle requests might have a built-in conflict of interest.

As Changthong Opassiriwit pointed out, the Public Information Committee would handle information requests, be responsible for petitioners’ complaints and also decide if agencies must disclose information they deem “confidential.”

He said it might pose a problem and questioned whether a separate, independent committee should be responsible for forcing action.

Speaking as one of the drafters, steering subcommittee member Somchart Jesrichai said the law was still being tuned. He said he could not yet give a timeline for when it would replace the 1997 Official Information Act as law, but assured more public hearings would be held.

Taste a Fancy Feast at Bangkok Gourmet Fest

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Chayanit Itthipongmaetee, Staff Reporter

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February 22, 2017 2:39 pm

BANGKOK — Let your tongue bear witness to the world’s food culture, from fancy French-style crepes, fresh Italian truffles, Michelin-starring sushi and rare Chor Muang Thai dumplings.

At Bangkok Gourmet Festival, food lovers will feast on treats from more than 60 local and international fine dining restaurants around the world. Some of the kingdom’s leading restaurants will be there, including Iron Chef Table, Osha, Crostini Italian Restaurant and Benjarong Thai Cuisine.

Celebrity chefs such as Hong Kong’s Alvin “Demon Chef” Leung, and Curtis Duffy from Chicago’s Michelin-starred Grace will show off their culinary talents while foodies host discussions on food trends.

Read: Threeplay: Bangkok’s Gaggan Tops Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, Again

Love wine and beer? The three-day event also includes wine tasting and pairing, and a showcase of local and international beers. The festival’s Market Zone will offer kitchenware products from brands around the world at discounted prices.

The event takes place March 3 through March 5 at the Royal Paragon Hall on the fifth floor of the Siam Paragon shopping mall. Admission is 200 baht each day and can be purchased at the door.

Nuclear Living vs. Chinese Tradition at ‘Made by Microwave’

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Kaewta Ketbungkan, Staff Reporter

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February 22, 2017 2:36 pm

An image from the Made by Microwave exhibition. Photo: Kanith / Facebook

BANGKOK — While the sight of a woman’s head in a microwave with six burning joss sticks may recall Sylvia Plath, the image is a local illustrator’s reflection on the collission of her heritage and modern life.

Descended from mainland Chinese ancestors, Kanitharin Thailamtong, aka Kanith, is familiar with smoking incense, prayers and dining around a small round table in their small shophouse.

Her work is a curious look at the the changing eating habits and dining styles from round-table feasts to convenience-store microwave meals.

The exhibition launches at 5pm on March 4 and runs through May 21 at The Gallery, located on the 36th floor of the Pullman Bangkok Hotel G on Silom Road. It can be reached by mototaxi from BTS Chong Nonsi exit No. 3.

Undisclosed Changes to Constitution Sent for Endorsement

By

Teeranai Charuvastra, News Chief

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February 22, 2017 2:16 pm

Junta chairman Prayuth Chan-ocha arrives at Government House for a Cabinet meeting Tuesday.

BANGKOK — A government official on Wednesday declined to disclose the final draft of the amended constitution submitted for royal endorsement last week.

The draft, first approved by the public in an August referendum, was withdrawn for revisions last month on the instruction of King Vajiralongkorn. The government has not detailed what changes were made, beyond saying they involved royal authority and not political rights or liberties.

“Please wait for now. When the time is right, we will talk about it,” Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said Monday. “As for the contents of the amended constitution, there are only several chapters. They are not related to politics, government administration, rights or liberties.”

After it was first sent for his endorsement, King Vajiralongkorn unexpectedly sent the charter draft back to the government in January. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said His Majesty wished to see several changes related to the exercise of royal powers.

On Jan. 10, Wissanu said articles 5, 17 and 182 would be modified, at a minimum. Those articles address the constitution’s legal supremacy and royal prerogative for matters it doesn’t cover, mechanisms to resolve constitutional crises, the king’s need to appoint a regent when abroad and the need for royal proclamations to be countersigned by a government minister to become law.

Since there were no legal mechanisms anticipating the request for changes, the junta’s rubber-stamp parliament retroactively rewrote the interim charter put in place by the junta to allow the charter to be rewritten according to His Majesty’s desires.

This past Friday, Wissanu said the finished draft was sent to the King for approval.

Law professor Jade Donavanik said it’s unusual for constitutional revisions to be submitted for royal consideration without first disclosing them to the public, especially for charter approved by public referendum.

However, he allowed that such a practice could be acceptable under certain conditions

“It’s an extraordinary circumstance,” said Jade, who’s been involved in drafting previous constitutions. “I’m not sure if this has ever happened in history, but I suppose it probably happened before in exceptional cases such as this one.”

Jade said he has no information about what’s in the final draft.

His Majesty the King now has 90 days to review the charter. If he endorses it, it will be immediately enacted into law.

A source in the Constitution Drafting Committee, which wrote the original charter draft, said the government took sole responsibility in amending the draft per the King’s wishes, and none of the drafters were consulted.

“They’re doing everything on their own,” said the source, who requested anonymity, citing sensitivity of the subject. Like Jade, the source said he’s unaware what the final draft says.

The Imperfect Love of ‘Echo & Narcissus’ in Mixed-Media

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Kaewta Ketbungkan, Staff Reporter

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February 22, 2017 12:52 pm

An image from ‘Echo & Narcissus’ performance posted on Feb. 21. Photo: Thong Lor Art Space / Facebook.An image from ‘Echo & Narcissus’ performance posted on Feb. 21. Photo: Thong Lor Art Space / Facebook. — An image from ‘Echo & Narcissus’ performance posted on Feb. 21. Photo: Thong Lor Art Space / Facebook.

BANGKOK — The tragic love story of a cursed nymph who falls for a lovely man in love with his own reflection will be staged with a Thai dancer, Belgian pianist and visual imagery this weekend.

A live performance of piano, dance and graphics will make for a mixed-media retelling of the classic Greek tale of Echo and Narcissus.

Professional dancer and choreographer Sun Tawalwongsri will lead the dance accompanied by Belgian siblings, classical pianist and visual artist brother-sister team Jonas Dept and Eva Dept.

The performance is part of Thong Lor Art Space’s Low Fat Art Festival, which features various events for three months.

Tickets are 550 baht at the door. Discounted tickets are available for 500 baht if paid in advance, or 350 baht for students. Find the details online.

The performance will happen at 8pm on Friday and at 7pm on Saturday and Sunday at Thong Lor Art Space, a five-minute walk from BTS Thong Lo exit No. 1.

Related articles:

Friday: Filmmaker Apichatpong’s First to Screen in Thonglor

Discuss Russia’s ASEAN Ambitions at March Roundtable

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Lobsang Dundup Sherpa Subirana, Deputy Editor

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February 22, 2017 12:49 pm

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2016 during the ASEAN — Russia Summit in Sochi, Russia. Photo: President of Russia / Google (Labeled for reuse)

BANGKOK — Regional and international political buffs will have a chance to voice their opinions and share their insights at a roundtable on Russia’s position in Southeast Asia next month.

As Russia re-emerges as an actor on the world stage, its interest is swelling in the growing regional economy. Asia Centre will host an open discussion and attendees will have the opportunity to debate the key aspects of Russia’s foreign policy toward ASEAN.

Questions encompassing an array of topics ranging from regional economics and diplomacy to the military will be up for discussion, including what role Moscow can play in stabilizing the South China Sea conflict.

The discussion will be attended by experts in Southeast Asian and international foreign policy including Kirill Barsky, Russia’s ambassador to Thailand. It’s meant to provide insight on the former superpower’s grand strategy in the world order in the coming years.

Russian Grand Strategy & the Asia Pacific will start at 3pm on March 30 at Asia Centre, which can be reached by a one minute walk from BTS Phaya Thai. Those interested can sign up online. Admission is free.

Tourist Touts, Khaosan Forgers Busted (Photos)

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Asaree Thaitrakulpanich, Staff Reporter

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February 22, 2017 12:26 pm

Police peruse the professional and academic certifications advertised by a forgery suspect Tuesday afternoon in Bangkok’s Phra Nakhon district.

BANGKOK — Need a university degree? Want to buy some gems? There were 75 fewer forgers and touts asking those questions Wednesday after the crackdown pendulum once again swung in their direction.

A force of more than 200 tourist police and military officers on Tuesday arrested 75 suspects for soliciting foreign tourists to buy fake IDs – everything from diplomas and driving licenses to press credentials and teaching certifications – or patronize businesses where they get a cut or commission.

Bangkok Gov. Aswin Kwanmuang said Tuesday that the crackdown went after the taxi, motorcycle and tuk-tuk driver touts famous for leading tourists to jewelers and tailors.

“I want to ask drivers to not take advantage of tourists,” Aswin said. “If this behavior continues then tourists won’t come here, and you will lose your jobs as a consequence.”

The 75 arrested drivers were charged with various crimes: 40 for parking illegally, 15 for causing a public nuisance, 11 for selling goods on the sidewalk, three for driving without a license, three for refusing passengers, two for not wearing appropriate clothing while providing public transportation and one for overcharging passengers.

The drivers were fined a minimum of 3,000 baht each and had their driving record noted down. Those with repeat offenses had their licenses revoked.

Maj. Gen. Prasert Ngernyuang, commander of the national Tourist Police, said raids would be conducted “every week, focusing on areas that we receive the most complaints about, such as the Grand Palace, Sanam Luang, Tha Tian, Tha Chang. We will also focus on piers and malls.”

For decades, touts have preyed on tourists, forgers have sold low-quality fake documents on Khaosan Road, and police have occasionally launched crackdowns.

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