Bangkok: Captain Anudit Nakornthap, strategy chairman of the Kla Dharma Party, has clarified the recent seizure of assets belonging to Songkhla MP Chanonpat Naksuwa by the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO). The seizures have sparked public outrage due to suspicions of financial connections to online gambling. Capt. Anudit emphasized that the same standards should be applied uniformly across the House of Representatives, ensuring fairness without discrimination or protection.
According to Thai News Agency, Captain Anudit stated that the Kla Dharma Party will not interfere, protect, or obstruct the investigation into Chanonpat’s assets. The party is committed to ensuring that the investigation proceeds in a straightforward and legal manner. Capt. Anudit also addressed inquiries about the responsibility of the party and the potential resignation of Capt. Thammanat Prompao, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, stating that the issue is a common standard for the entire House of Representatives, not specific to any one party.
Captain Anudit reiterated that MP Chanonpat must prove his innocence through the judicial process. The party will not shield any perpetrator, and if found guilty, Chanonpat must be held accountable. Conversely, if he is innocent, justice must be served. The outcome will depend on the facts and the judicial process, with no exemptions granted.
Capt. Anudit called for society to view the situation with fairness, questioning the political double standards. He highlighted that MPs from various parties continue to hold their positions despite being sentenced by the Court of First Instance or the Court of Appeals. Meanwhile, there are demands for MP Chanonpat’s immediate resignation despite pending criminal cases.
“The question is, are we truly applying the same standards?” Capt. Anudit asked. He emphasized that representatives facing their own legal battles should be allowed to continue their duties, applying the same principles to all parties. This is not an attack on any individual but a reflection of the common problems affecting public confidence in parliamentary standards.
Captain Anudit reiterated the Kla Tham Party’s principles: non-discrimination, respect for the judicial process, and setting a good example by applying the same standards to oneself as to others. He concluded by stating that Thailand must address “double standards” and political exploitation of cases to raise parliamentary confidence. This effort must begin with self-examination, ensuring integrity before addressing others’ issues.