Veteran activist Somyot has issued an apology following allegations of sexual assault made by a woman identified as “A.” The apology, posted on Facebook, addresses the claims that surfaced in an interview published by independent media outlet SocialGaze. Somyot acknowledged that his understanding of consent was mistaken and that “A” did not agree to sexual contact as she described.
Details of the Allegations and Apology
In his Facebook statement, Somyot expressed regret for his actions, stating, “I apologise to A for misunderstanding and thinking that A had given consent, but that was not the case as A described.” He further elaborated on their past relationship, noting that “A” was 25 at the time of the alleged incidents while he was 64. They had lived together for approximately two years, with the first year described as agreeable before their relationship became strained in the second year.
Somyot mentioned that “A” wished to keep their relationship private, and he had also maintained secrecy. He indicated that disagreements became more frequent and intense, ultimately leading to the relationship’s end. “I apologise to A once again. I apologise to everyone upset by this mistake and accept all consequences,” he wrote, accepting responsibility for the situation.
Background of the Accuser and Alleged Incidents
The allegations were detailed by “A” in an interview with SocialGaze, where she recounted experiences she claims occurred during trips in 2024. She stated that she first met Somyot through political activities and initially viewed him as a respected senior figure and mentor. Over time, he became significantly involved in her personal and professional life, assisting with work arrangements, accompanying her to events, and offering guidance.
According to “A,” Somyot began using increasingly intimate language, referring to her as “darling” and sending messages expressing that he missed her. She also mentioned that other activists had previously cautioned her about his physical interactions with others.
The core of the allegations centers on two specific incidents. “A” claims that in June 2024, during a trip, Somyot touched her while she was asleep and subsequently forced her to have sex without her consent. She stated that she confronted him afterward, but he reportedly claimed he could not recall the events. A similar incident allegedly occurred during a subsequent trip to Chiang Mai, despite her repeated rejections of sexual contact.
Reasons for Delayed Disclosure
“A” explained her initial silence was due to feelings of shame, fear of being disbelieved or questioned, and a lack of concrete evidence. Additionally, she cited a sense of financial, personal, and professional dependence on Somyot, which made the prospect of speaking out publicly more daunting.
Reactions and Broader Context
The allegations have generated significant criticism from democracy activists and across social media platforms. Sunai Phasuk, an advisor for Human Rights Watch, publicly identified Somyot on the social media platform X, referencing information from individuals familiar with the accusations prior to Somyot’s apology.
In response to broader concerns, Pipob Udomittipong, a columnist and independent academic, reportedly questioned Somyot about whether he would address other potential allegations of sexual harassment involving activists. Somyot’s reply was affirmative: “Yes. I apologise in every case and promise not to do this again.”
Somyot’s Activist History
Somyot is a well-known figure in Thailand’s democracy movement, with decades of involvement in labor and political activism. His past includes serving as an editor for Voice of Taksin magazine and experiencing imprisonment under Section 112 of the Criminal Code (lese-majeste) before resuming his activism upon release. His prominent role in activism makes these allegations particularly impactful within the circles he operates.
Conclusion
The unfolding situation highlights critical issues of consent, power dynamics within activist circles, and the courage required for individuals to come forward with allegations of sexual assault. Somyot’s public apology represents an acknowledgment of the claims, though the broader implications and any further developments are still emerging. The case underscores the ongoing societal dialogue regarding accountability and the handling of such serious accusations within public and political spheres.
