Bangkok: The court has dismissed the defamation case brought against Chuwit Kamolwisit by Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, regarding remarks made about the legalization of cannabis. Chuwit, a former politician, warned the Bhumjaithai Party to be more open-minded if it aspires to be a major political force, following the court’s decision.
According to Thai News Agency, the case was heard at the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road, where Mr. Anutin had authorized Mr. Supachai Jaisamut to file the lawsuit against Chuwit for defamation through advertising. The complaint was linked to events following the dissolution of the House of Representatives on March 17, 2023, with subsequent election-related activities occurring later that month.
The allegations against Chuwit included the organization of activities that aimed to dissuade voters from supporting the Bhumjaithai Party by distributing misleading messages about the party’s cannabis policy. These activities reportedly took place during a speech by Mr. Anutin at a public event, where Chuwit allegedly used a megaphone and distributed shirts to convey his stance against the party’s cannabis policy.
The court reviewed the evidence, noting that Anutin, as a public figure, had used cannabis as a central campaign topic. The court found that Chuwit’s actions were expressions of honest dissent against the policy, which he viewed as harmful to youth. Consequently, the court ruled that Chuwit’s actions did not constitute defamation and dismissed the case.
Following the court’s decision, Chuwit expressed his satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of free criticism in a democratic society. He urged the Bhumjaithai Party to remain open to public scrutiny and suggested that pursuing legal action against critics could be seen as a sign of narrow-mindedness.