Activists Panupong "Mike" Jadnok (fourth, right) and Parit "Penguin" Chiwarak (third, right) speak to the media outside Chanasongkram police station in Bangkok on November 30, 2020, as they came to hear charges of allegedly violating the royal defamation law during the ongoing protests. (MLADEN ANTONOV / AFP)

BANGKOK - The most prominent leaders of Thai anti-government protests presented themselves at a police station on Monday to hear charges of insulting the monarchy. 

It is the first time in more than two years that anyone has been charged with lese majeste, Article 112 in the Thai criminal code, which can mean a jail sentence of up to 15 years.

It is the first time in more than two years that anyone has been charged with lese majeste, Article 112 in the Thai criminal code, which can mean a jail sentence of up to 15 years

“(Article) 112 is an unjust law. I don’t give it any value,” rights lawyer and protest leader Arnon Nampa told reporters. “I am ready to fight in the justice system.”

Arnon was joined by Panupong “Mike Rayong” Jadnok, Panusaya “Rung” Sithijirawattanakul and Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak.

ALSO READ: Thai PM says all laws to be used against protesters

We have acknowledged and denied the charge, Arnon said at the police station.

A total of seven protest leaders face royal insult charges. They and dozens of other protesters face other charges relating to demonstrations since July.

Three others including Patsaravalee “Mind” Tanakitvibulpon, Jutatip Sirikhan, and Tattep “Ford” Ruangprapaikitseree received summons on Monday, they posted on Twitter.

The protests have become the biggest challenge to the monarchy in decades as they have broken taboos by openly criticizing a monarchy that must be revered according to the constitution.

ALSO READ: Thai lawmakers vote on constitutional change in face of protests

The Royal Palace has not commented since protests began. When asked about the protesters recently, the king said they were loved “all the same”.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha had said in July that the lese majeste charges were not being used at the request of the king.

Protesters seek the removal of Prayuth and also want to replace the constitution.

READ MORE: Thailand approaches former PMs to lead reconciliation panel