Bangkok: MPs from the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) have received a letter from The Isaan Record requesting protection of media freedom. The letter was sent in response to a lawsuit filed by Suchart Chomklin, seeking 50 million baht in damages over a news report concerning berry-picking workers in Finland.
According to Thai News Agency, the letter was delivered by Ms. Hathairat Phaholthap, Managing Editor of The Isaan Record, to Mr. Sahasawat Khumkhong and Mr. Anusorn Kaewwichien, MPs from the People's Party, along with Mr. Tewarit Maneechai, spokesperson for the Senate Committee on Political Development, Public Participation, Human Rights, Freedoms, and Consumer Protection. The letter calls for an investigation into alleged abuses of authority by politicians, which Ms. Hathairat claims undermine press freedom following a defamation lawsuit initiated by Mr. Suchart's lawyer.
Ms. Hathairat considers the lawsuit as a violation of press freedom and detrimental to The Isaan Record's morale. Despite Mr. Suchart's lawyer reportedly withdrawing the lawsuit, she has not received official confirmation and intends to continue advocating for press freedom and justice for the affected berry pickers.
The lawsuit is perceived as a potential SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) case, which could intimidate journalists and restrict press freedom. Ms. Hathairat calls for transparency in the lawsuit's status, protection of press rights, and a thorough investigation into human trafficking and labor rights issues, particularly concerning berry pickers.
Mr. Anusorn Kaewvichean emphasized the importance of protecting individuals from legal intimidation for public interest actions, while Mr. Sahasawat Khumkhong highlighted the challenges faced by Thai workers abroad, particularly in Finland, and the need for vigilance in protecting media freedom and workers' rights.