Bangkok: The Ministry of the Interior has directed governors across the nation to strictly adhere to legal protocols to safeguard public rights amid an ongoing investigation by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) into alleged collusion among senators. This directive follows reports of DSI officials conducting inquiries in the Amnat Charoen Province regarding the selection of senators. The ministry emphasized that any acts of cruelty or inhumanity discovered during the investigation can be halted by court orders.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaiwat Junthiraphong, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, issued an urgent communication to the DSI Director-General. The letter, marked No. MoI 0307.1/25786, seeks cooperation in enforcing the Special Investigation Act of 2004. It was prompted by a report from the Governor of Amnat Charoen Province on May 4th, which detailed an incident involving individuals claiming to be DSI officers requesting information on former Senate candidates.
The Department of Provincial Administration has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the DSI under Section 22 of the Special Investigation Act. The department requests formal documentation confirming the appointment and authority of investigators in special cases. This is to ensure that administrative officials at the provincial and district levels can legally support and cooperate with DSI investigations.
A confidential letter dated April 12, 2025, has been circulated by the Department of Provincial Administration, instructing administrative officials to prioritize the protection of citizens' rights and freedoms, as enshrined in the Thai Constitution. Officials are urged to comply with the Criminal Procedure Code and related laws to ensure the protection of personal and residential liberties.
On the same day, Mr. Mana Simma, legal advisor acting as the Ministry's permanent secretary, communicated an urgent directive to the governor of Amnat Charoen Province. This communication highlighted the importance of identifying officials with proper authority, following reports of unidentified individuals seeking information on former Senate candidates.
The Ministry has set out guidelines for governors and related officials to adhere to the Criminal Procedure Code and to facilitate cooperation between government agencies in special case investigations. This includes the implementation of the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act, ensuring any suspected acts of torture or inhumane treatment are swiftly addressed by local courts.
The overarching goal of these directives is to protect citizens' rights and freedoms, aligning with the country's legal and constitutional frameworks. These guidelines have been mandated for implementation across all provinces nationwide.