21/02/2017
To UN Human Rights Organization and International Court of Justice,
To whom it may concern,,
As you may know, Wat Phra Dhammakaya, is one of the largest Buddhist temples in Thailand, and is currently at the center of a highly publicized case. The temple’s abbot, Most Venerable Dhammajayo or Phrathepyanmahamuni, is being aggressively pursued by Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and police force in a controversial case in which we strongly believe he is wrongfully accused.
The Thai Military government has used its unlimited authority, known as article 44, against the Dhammakaya Temple. Article 44 allows the Junta to do anything it wants, with no restrictions or limitations.
DSI and police force have taken unjust actions against the abbot throughout the case, including issuing a search warrant to the Wat Phra Dhammakaya. Thousands of armed forces have seized the temple, whereas thousands of devotees peacefully gather there for chanting and meditation.
This excessive use of force is unnecessary, as Wat Phra Dhammakaya has always been known for the promotion of peace. This provocative act and comments will lead to nothing for deeper sentimental conflicts in Thai society. We cannot comprehend how this action can happen in a country that was once regarded as the land of Buddhism. Police’s attitude and actions are unjust and excessive.
This will demoralize any Buddhist organization or non‐profit organization that relies on donations to keep it running. Moreover, Thai authority also ordered DMC Channel to shut down its operation. It was based on unsubstantial claims that DMC contents caused conflicts in Thai society. DMC Channel is widely known for its non‐political, non‐commercial Buddhist channel.
We’ve launched an online petition urging the Thai Military Government to end the blockade on the Temple. We ask you to be part of our cause and help fight for this religious intolerance that is happening now in Thailand.
Whether or not you live in Thailand, whether you are a Buddhist, Muslim, Christian and other religions, all Buddhists and non‐Buddhists have a right to know why the Military Government of Thailand is using brutal force to block and seize the temple without any mutual agreement.
The Thai Military government must end this blockade immediately. We request for H.E. Gen. Prayuth Chan‐Ocha, the Prime Minister of Thailand, to look into this matter and ensure the issue between DSI and Wat Phra Dhammakaya is resolved peacefully, so we can end this case in a way that upholds the reputation of both Thailand and Buddhism.
Let's use this moment to force the Thai Military Government to end the blockade on the Temple in order to avoid public conflict.
With thanks,
Ssebuliba Wilson Human Rights Defender and the Friends of Wat Phra Dhammakaya Temple Thailand
Posted February 19, 2017
