The case targets members of the progressive People’s Party and its dissolved predecessor Move Forward Party, who in 2021 sought changes to legislation that protects the monarchy from criticism. The court said proceedings would begin on June 30 and confirmed that 10 serving lawmakers among the accused would not be suspended pending trial.

Thailand’s lese-majeste law is among the strictest globally, carrying penalties of up to 15 years in prison per offense. Critics, including members of the opposition, have argued that the law has been used to suppress dissent and political opposition.

The court’s move marks the latest setback for Thailand’s liberal, anti-establishment bloc, which has faced a series of judicial rulings in recent years. In early 2024, a court ruled that efforts by Move Forward to amend the law were unconstitutional and undermined the democratic system.

The party was subsequently dissolved, with its members regrouping under the People’s Party banner.Among those named in the case are party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut and deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakul.

Despite strong polling support, the People’s Party finished second in February’s general election to the Bhumjaithai Party led by Prime Minister Anutin Chanvirakul, after earlier being blocked from forming a government following its 2023 election victory.

Anutin, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, leveraged heightened public concern over territorial security in the wake of last year’s tensions with Cambodia, framing his campaign around sovereignty and stability. His messaging resonated with voters and key political stakeholders, helping him regain power after triggering snap polls less than 100 days into his previous tenure.

At a pre-election rally in Bangkok, Anutin cast his party as the defender of national integrity, urging voters to back Bhumjaithai as a patriotic choice.

His campaign emphasized safeguarding Thailand’s land and security, aligning closely with broader nationalist currents that gained traction after the border dispute.

Analysts say the strategy proved effective in consolidating a fragmented electorate and appealing to establishment forces wary of instability. The political climate, shaped by external tensions, created conditions favorable to candidates projecting strong national leadership.

Establishment support consolidates powerPolitical observers noted that Thailand’s conservative-royalist establishment rallied behind Anutin, providing crucial backing in both the electoral process and parliamentary vote.

This alignment helped secure his return to office despite the short-lived nature of his previous administration.The support underscores the continued influence of traditional power centers in Thai politics, particularly during periods of geopolitical strain. Anutin’s positioning as a stabilizing figure appears to have reassured key stakeholders amid uncertainty.

Anutin’s decision to call snap elections shortly after assuming office initially drew scrutiny, but the timing coincided with rising nationalist sentiment that ultimately worked in his favor.

The February polls became a referendum not only on governance but also on national security priorities.

His swift return to power reflects both the effectiveness of his campaign messaging and the broader political recalibration driven by regional tensions.