Elites call for amendments

Eight Royal descendants have written to PM Yingluck Shinawatra seeking amendments to the lese majeste law.

The move comes amid growing calls for changes to Article 112 of the Penal Code regarding lese majeste.

The letter, dated January 6, noted that the number of lese majeste cases increased from zero in 2002 to 165 in 2009, despite His Majesty's call in December 2005 for an amendment to the law, as it was the monarch who would be criticised when violators were punished. "In fact, the King has never said he wants [violators] to go to jail," His Majesty was quoted as saying. The group said past governments have failed to realise the King's wish.

The letter is signed by Sumet Jumsai na Ayudhya, MR Saisavat Svasti, Saising Siribut, Narisra Chakrabhong, Worapoj Snidvong na Ayutthaya, General Krit Kridakorn, MR Pavari Suchiva (Rachani) and MR Opas Kanchanavichai.