Netiporn “Bung” Sanesangkhom

It is with profound sadness that we convey our deepest condolences on the passing of Netiporn “Bung” Sanesangkhom, a courageous political activist who selflessly dedicated her life to the unwavering pursuit of justice reform.

We stand in solidarity with Bung in her unwavering belief that “the right to bail is an inalienable fundamental human right.” Her unwavering commitment to this principle serves as an enduring inspiration to all who strive for a just and equitable society.

Netiporn “Bung” Sanesangkhom emerged as a leader of the Thalu Wang group in 2020. The group engaged in various pro-democracy activism activities. These activities led to her facing numerous criminal charges, including the controversial lèse-majesté law. Bung continued to fight these charges in court. While detained, Bung and other defendants staged a hunger strike to protest the Thai justice system. The prolonged hunger strike severely impacted their health. Their demands were twofold:

  • Reform of the justice system.
  • An end to the detention of political dissidents.

Tragically, Bung passed away on May 14, 2024, at Thammasat University Hospital from sudden cardiac arrest. The total time between her detention awaiting trial and the start of the hunger strike protest was 109 days.