To the Editor:

“Pandemic Temps Leaders to Seize Sweeping Powers” (front page, March 31) does not reflect the emergency situation in Thailand regarding the coronavirus.

First, disseminating false or distorted news and information that may instigate fear among the public is prohibited. This temporary measure is in accordance with existing Thai law and Thailand’s obligations under international law. It is not a restriction on freedom of expression, and is limited only to news stories including false or distorted information about the virus outbreak, which could cause unwarranted distress and risks during a public health crisis.

Any responsible journalists should understand the adverse consequences of unethical reporting upon the public, which is already in a state of anxiety.

Second, any lawsuit against journalists during this time would be purely due to their act of disseminating information, not because of any criticism against the government. In any case, no journalist has been charged with such an offense yet.