National —
On June 27th, 2024, the Ratchadaphisek Criminal Court’s Appeals Court delivered its verdict in a major rebellion case against the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC).
The case involved Suthep Thaugsuban, a former PDRC Secretary-General, and 38 other PDRC members, charged with rebellion, terrorism, inciting strikes, causing public unrest, forming secret societies, and obstructing elections.
The indictment stated that from November 23rd, 2013, to May 1st, 2014, Suthep and his co-defendants formed the PDRC with the aim to overthrow the 2007 Constitution, incite public dissent, and mobilize protests to oust then-Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. They obstructed general elections and demanded high-ranking officials report to the PDRC, intending to establish a “people’s government.”
The group allegedly occupied key government sites, including Government House and the Royal Thai Police headquarters, disrupting governmental operations and transportation routes, causing public inconvenience. Between January 13th and March 2nd, 2014, the defendants reportedly set up seven rally stages across Bangkok, blocking traffic and preventing state officials from intervening.
The incidents occurred in Bangkok and other regions across Thailand. All defendants denied the charges and were granted bail. The situation ended when the military formed a junta and led a coup led by Prayut Chan-O’-Cha which lasted for over eight years.
On June 27th, Suthep and the other 37 PDRC members arrived at the Ratchadaphisek Criminal Court to hear the verdict, supported by over 100 close associates and supporters.
After the verdict, Suthep’s lawyer, Sawat Jaroenpon, revealed that the Appeals Court reduced the prison sentences for Suthep and others from 4 to 9 years to 1 to 1.5 years without parole. The court saw the actions as a single continuous offense.
Fourteen defendants received imprisonment without parole, while others were acquitted or had their sentences increased. Those with imprisonment without parole are seeking bail from the Supreme Court.
