Thai state prosecutors have opted not to proceed with royal defamation charges against Paul Chambers, a U.S. political science lecturer at Naresuan University. Chambers, who was arrested on April 8, was accused of violating Thailand’s lese majeste law. This development was announced on Thursday, according to local media reports.
The attorney general’s office stated that they decided “not to indict” the 58-year-old, explaining that the evidence was insufficient under Section 112 of the Criminal Code. This section regulates offenses related to royal defamation. The case, initially filed by Col Mongkol Veerasiri at the Muang Phitsanulok Police Station, alleged that Chambers had defamed, insulted, or expressed hostility towards members of the Thai royal family. The complaint specifically mentioned his role in an academic webinar notice from Singapore’s Yusof Ishak Institute, which Chambers contended he did not author or publish.
Chambers was initially detained for two nights before securing bail. The conditions imposed included an ankle monitor, which was later removed following an appellate court decision.
Thailand’s royal defamation law carries significant penalties of three to 15 years imprisonment per offense. This law has been criticized by multiple human rights organizations for its use against scholars, activists, and students.
While the prosecutors have suggested dropping the charges, the provincial court and regional police may still review the case under Article 145/1 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The case, which has reportedly affected trade discussions between Thailand and the United States, continues to raise questions about the diplomatic relationship between the nations. Trade talks have been delayed indefinitely, adding a layer of complexity to the already tense situation over the charges against Chambers.