Elderly Thai woman roughed up, charged with crimes for protesting PM on campaign trail

A government spokesperson said today that everyone must “respect” candidates running to be prime minister, after a woman was dragged off by security for daring to criticize the current premier as he campaigned west of Bangkok.

Spokesperson Thanakorn Wangboonchana said that the right to expression did not mean people could disrespect PM candidates when they make campaign stops, as happened Monday when at least three officers removed 61-year-old Wantana O-thong by force after she vocally criticized Gen. Prayuth Chan-ocha, who was expected to arrive in the area in Ratchaburi province. 

Wantana was also charged with assaulting and obstructing officials, making a loud noise in public and refusing to stay in a designated area. She was also accused of biting the finger of one officer, according to Col. Piyapong Wongketjai, chief of Bang Pong Police.