Thai activist convicted over royal motorcade livestream broadcast

A Thai court has convicted activist Tantawan of breaching the country's strict lese-majeste law following her livestream coverage of a royal motorcade, despite her denial of the charges. The case underscores the broad application of Thailand's Article 112, which criminalizes defamation, insult or threat against the monarchy and carries penalties of up to 15 years imprisonment. Tantawan's livestream, which documented the motorcade's movement through a public area, was deemed to constitute a violation of the statute. The activist had contested the charges, arguing that her actions did not constitute an offense under the law. The conviction has drawn scrutiny from international observers and rights advocates who have repeatedly criticized Thailand's lese-majeste provisions as overly restrictive and inconsistent with freedom of expression principles. Thailand has faced mounting international pressure regarding its use of Article 112, with human rights organisations arguing that the law is frequently employed to silence political dissent and restrict legitimate civic engagement. The case represents one of numerous prosecutions under the lese-majeste statute in recent years.