Today, May 22, marks 11 years since Thailand’s military coup in 2014.
This morning at 10:00 AM, I appeared before the Samut Prakan Provincial Court after the public prosecutor formally indicted me for allegedly evading military conscription.

Last year, I presented myself at the conscription center but refused to participate in the red-and-black lottery draw. I made this decision not out of fear, but out of conscience.

I firmly plead not guilty.

Conscientious objection to military service is a right recognized in international human rights declarations. No citizen should be forced to engage with a system that promotes violence or goes against their moral and ethical beliefs.

Throughout history, countless individuals have taken a stand against forced conscription.

Among them is Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxer, who courageously refused to be drafted into the Vietnam War—famously declaring, “I ain’t got no quarrel with them Viet Cong.”

His stance cost him his title and his freedom, but inspired millions.
In South Korea, Germany, Israel, and beyond, conscientious objectors have challenged militarism through peaceful means, often at great personal cost.
They are my inspiration.

Thailand’s conscription system has enabled corruption, abuse, and unchecked military power for far too long. I am committed to contesting this case to uphold the rights of conscience and to help spark long-overdue change.

I believe that by ending forced conscription and respecting individual conscience, Thai society can become freer, and the military more accountable.
As I stood against the coup 11 years ago,
I continue to walk the path of nonviolence, freedom, and justice today.