Sondhi, currently serving a 20-year sentence for fraud, and the others organised a forum titled “Finland Declaration, Thai Rak Thai’s political strategy” in May 2006 at Thammasat University. The event was broadcast via ASTV and the Manager website, leading to accusations of defamation.
The Justice and Appeals Court dismissed the charge, saying Sondhi and the other accused had made their remarks as citizens criticising the government’s work.
The Supreme Court was scheduled to rule yesterday, but postponed its verdict until next month because one of the defendants was ill.