Protesters Rally on Activist’s Birthday Amid Unexplained Death in Detention
Last Thursday (8 August), pro-democracy activists gathered in front of the Bangkok Remand Prison on what would have been the 29th birthday of activist Netiporn Sanesangkhom, who died in detention following a long hunger strike to demand the release of political prisoners, while her cause of death has yet to be explained by the authorities.
Protesters lit candles in front of a portrait of Netiporn as they gathered to commemorate her life and continue her fight for justice. Activist Tantawan Tuatulanon, a close friend of Netiporn, spoke at the gathering, sharing memories of their time together and the promises they made to each other.
Remembering Netiporn’s Fight
Tantawan Tuatulanon recounted the moments she shared with Netiporn during their time in detention and their conversations about the future. She expressed disbelief and grief over the loss of her friend and the lack of accountability for her death.
“It was a very short time that I feel like I got to know her more and got closer to her. Why is it such a pity that we don’t get to come out and get to know each other more and over a longer period of time, because we talked a lot that, if we get released, let’s go and live our lives,” Tantawan said.
Tantawan shared the promises they made to each other about studying, working, traveling, and enjoying life together if they were ever granted bail. However, those dreams were shattered with Netiporn’s untimely death, leaving Tantawan and others to continue the fight for justice in her honor.
Seeking Accountability for Netiporn’s Death
Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s death on 14 May sparked outrage and calls for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her passing. The 28-year-old activist had been on a hunger strike since January to demand reform of the judicial system and the release of political dissidents.
According to her lawyer, Krisadang Nutcharus, evidence suggests that Netiporn died at the Corrections Hospital under questionable circumstances. CCTV footage from her ward revealed discrepancies in the medical response to her cardiac arrest, raising concerns about the lack of proper care provided to her.
The autopsy report cited acute heart failure, electrolyte imbalance, and cardiomegaly as the causes of Netiporn’s death. However, her medical records indicated that she suffered from Re-feeding Syndrome, a condition that can arise when a malnourished individual resumes eating.
Despite these findings, the Ministry of Justice and law enforcement agencies have been slow to conduct a comprehensive investigation into Netiporn’s death. Calls for transparency and accountability have been echoed by activists and supporters who refuse to let her memory fade away without justice being served.
Honoring Netiporn’s Legacy
As protesters gathered on Netiporn’s birthday to pay tribute to her life and legacy, they vowed to continue the fight for justice and reform in her honor. The lighting of candles, laying of flowers, and chanting of demands for change echoed through the streets as a reminder of Netiporn’s unwavering commitment to her cause.
The call for reform of the judicial system and the release of political prisoners remains a central focus for those who knew Netiporn and were inspired by her courage and determination. The determination to seek accountability for her death serves as a rallying cry for a movement that refuses to be silenced in the face of injustice.
In conclusion, Netiporn Sanesangkhom’s birthday rally serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in Thailand. As activists and supporters continue to demand answers and seek reform, Netiporn’s memory lives on as a symbol of resilience and courage in the face of adversity.