World Uyghur Congress Condemns Thailand’s Death Sentences in Erawan Shrine Bombing Case

World Uyghur Congress Condemns Thailand’s Death Sentences in Erawan Shrine Bombing Case
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The World Uyghur Congress has condemned a Thai court’s decision to sentence two Uyghur men to death over the 2015 Erawan Shrine bombing, saying the case was affected by serious fair trial concerns.

The Bangkok South Criminal Court sentenced Bilal Mohammed and Yusufu Mieraili on June 11 after finding them guilty of carrying out the attack, one of Thailand’s deadliest bombings, which killed 20 people and injured more than 120 others.

Both men have maintained their innocence and said they will appeal the verdict and sentences.

In a statement, the Germany-based World Uyghur Congress said the trial was marked by prolonged detention, allegations of ill-treatment and inadequate access to Uyghur-language interpretation. It also said part of the case was heard in a military court with limited transparency.

The group argued that Thailand is obligated under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to guarantee due process and fair trial standards. It said United Nations experts had previously raised concerns about the men’s prolonged detention.

It urged Thai authorities to ensure a transparent appeal process in line with international human rights standards. The group also called on governments, including the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, the United Kingdom and European Union member states, to press Thailand to uphold fair trial guarantees.

The organization said the convictions should be overturned and the defendants released if their guilt cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. If the convictions are upheld, it urged Thailand not to carry out the death sentences.