Bangkok: 'Anutin' denies involvement in a secret deal with Chan Song La after the National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) accepted the case of collusion with senators as a money laundering issue only.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, refrained from commenting after the Special Case Committee (SCCC) voted to accept the collusion case of the Senate elections on money laundering grounds. He stated that questions regarding this matter should be directed to the Minister of Justice. Whatever the resolution, it will stand as it is.
When asked about the potential impact on the Senate's performance and the government's cooperation, Mr. Anutin stressed that it was unrelated. He urged not to conflate the issues, asserting that those involved have a method of investigation, and if they can clarify the accusations, there is no problem. He added that investigations would proceed as per the law through the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), the Election Commission (EC), and the police.
Mr. Anutin expressed unfamiliarity with procedures and regulations regarding Senate performance disruption, emphasizing that these matters do not pertain to the Ministry of Interior or the four ministries he oversees. He reiterated that any inquiries should be directed to the Minister of Justice.
When questioned about potential effects on coalition party cooperation due to Senate votes needed for law passage, Mr. Anutin clarified that legislative matters are separate from executive branch responsibilities. He highlighted that the current issue is unrelated to election law but pertains to money laundering, which requires investigation.
Mr. Anutin criticized inaccurate analyses by media and academics, stating that spreading incorrect information is detrimental. He laughed off previous analyses predicting problems, noting their inaccuracy.
In response to inquiries about the special case committee's decisions, Mr. Anutin reiterated his detachment from the senators and refused to engage further on the topic. He mentioned avoiding dining with senators to prevent accusations of interference.
Mr. Anutin maintained confidence in General Kriangkrai Srirak, the First Vice President of the Senate, dismissing any suggestions of involvement in criminal activities. He emphasized the importance of trusting his friend despite external opinions.
Regarding a lawsuit filed by a group of senators against the Minister of Justice and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Mr. Anutin claimed no knowledge and refrained from inquiring to avoid accusations of meddling. He noted existing procedures and processes for such matters.
During the interview, an elderly woman named Mrs. Somnuk Thilak from Sakon Nakhon Province approached Mr. Anutin to complain about unexplained deductions from her savings account since 1994, totaling over 400,000 baht. Mr. Anutin guided her to the Damrongtham Center, Ministry of Interior, to file a formal letter. Mrs. Somnuk expressed her distress through a song, highlighting her financial grievance.