Bangkok: Bhumtham Wechayachai, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, acting as Prime Minister, addressed the ongoing audio clip case that has recently caught public attention. He clarified that he has not had any communication with Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra regarding the matter. Bhumtham emphasized that the court's decision to dismiss the lese majeste charges against former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is final and holds no political ramifications for the current government.
According to Thai News Agency, Bhumtham further elaborated on the situation involving Prime Minister and Minister of Culture, Paethongtarn Shinawatra. She had submitted a statement to the Constitutional Court concerning the audio clip involving Samdech Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate. Bhumtham noted that he had not spoken with Paethongtarn due to her late-night work and early morning commitments.
Bhumtham addressed the Criminal Court's dismissal of Thaksin Shinawatra's charges under Article 112 of the Criminal Code, which related to a 2015 interview with foreign media. He stressed that the dismissal is based on a lack of factual support and should not be interpreted as politically motivated. Bhumtham assured that the court's decision is independent and unrelated to other political matters, underscoring that each case is judged on its own merits.
When asked about the potential morale boost for Pheu Thai Party members following the court's decision, Bhumtham stated that the party's confidence remains unwavering, as members are assured of their legal standing and actions.
Regarding concerns about the government's ability to complete its term amidst various legal challenges, Bhumtham expressed confidence in his commitment to governance and serving the nation. He assured that any legal issues would be addressed through due legal processes, trusting the judiciary to deliver fair judgments.