Khong-Chi-Mun student group in Isaan urges an end to violence
Khon Kaen – Student activists from across Isaan established themselves as the “Ratsadon Khong Chi Mun Group” today (Feb. 14, 2021) and gathered at both the Provincial Police Region 4 Headquarters and the Khon Kaen Provincial Police Division. Some of them carried an effigy that looked like a dead body to symbolize a victim of violence that occurred in Bangkok last night during the break up of a protest in Bangkok entitled, “Counting from one to a million; Return power to the people.”
Protesters put tape on their mouths to symbolize the gagging of political activists. Some wrote “112” on the tape, referring to the lese majeste law, Section 112 of the criminal code.
Student activists in the Northeast have been meeting over the last few months to form a network representing students from provinces where students have been active protesting against the current government and calling for constitutional reforms.
The organisation, Thai Lawyers for Human Rights (TLHR), received an Albies award in New York on September 28. Yasothon native Sirikan Charoensiri, representing TLHR, delivered an impassioned speech at the awards ceremony, declaring, “We still have a long way to go toward true democracy.”
The atmosphere of the general election today in the Northeast was bustling. Even in areas where it rained, voters still showed up to exercise their rights.
A team of local artists have proposed a design for a memorial commemorating the “Holy Man Rebellion” in Ubon Ratchathani province. They want to promote the area to become a historical tourist destination and symbolize a kind of a public apology to those slaughtered.
Media of the margins join hands to build bridges through their effects that lead to increased understanding and reduced conflicts in society. A former TV anchor of Thairath says the media can serve as a bridge that connects people with different opinions. The Editors of local media outlets, as well as the alternative media, Prachatai, in Bangkok, speak out about their roles and hopes for a better Thailand