BANGKOK: As the statute of limitations on the Tak Bai case approaches expiration, Chairwoman Angkana Neelapaijit urges the government to issue an emergency decree to extend or suspend the deadline. With only three days remaining, the case’s expiration could result in the accused evading justice, potentially leading to further distrust in the justice system and heightened tensions in Thailand’s southern provinces.
According to Thai News Agency, the Senate Committee on Political Development, Public Participation, Human Rights, Liberties, and Consumer Protection convened a meeting to discuss the imminent expiration of the Tak Bai case. The meeting included representatives from various government agencies, such as the Provincial Police Region 9 and the Office of the Attorney General, as well as human rights organizations. Angkana Neelapaijit highlighted the urgency of issuing a royal decree to suspend the statute of limitations, emphasizing that it is the last hope for victims seeking justice.
Angkana expressed
concern over the potential loss of trust among the public, which has been gradually built over the past two decades. She warned that the inability to achieve justice in court could lead to increased violence and unrest. The absence of arrests of suspects, some of whom are reportedly abroad, further complicates the situation.
Addressing Minister of Justice Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Angkana acknowledged his efforts but criticized the lack of cooperation from other government agencies. She questioned how justice could be restored when suspects remain at large without accountability.
Angkana suggested that if domestic legal mechanisms fail, victims might consider pursuing justice in international courts. She mentioned that international law allows individuals to file lawsuits in cases of human rights violations, potentially labeling the Tak Bai incident as a serious crime against humanity or genocide.
Reflecting on the prolonged lack of justice in the case, Angkana noted the disparity in accountability between
civilians and state officials, especially in Thailand’s southern border provinces. She called for legal reforms, including the removal of statutes of limitations for severe human rights violations and an expanded definition of “victim” to encompass unregistered marriages prevalent in some regions.
Angkana concluded by urging the government to avoid rhetoric that blames victims and emphasized the need for accountability for the deaths of 78 people during the incident. She called for alignment with international conventions on torture and enforced disappearance to ensure justice for all affected individuals.