Bangkok: Core leaders of the Ruam Palang Phaendin group have submitted over a thousand pages of evidence to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to press charges against the current government regarding the transfer of 35 billion baht in debt from five banks for a digital project. They cite a document from the Royal Decree, which they believe ties the action to a violation of Section 144 of the Constitution. Assoc. Prof. Jessada has suggested that if the Supreme Court orders 309 MPs and Senators to stop their duties, there will be no political vacuum, proposing instead that all parties resign to allow the Election Commission (EC) to organize an election within 45-60 days.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chanchai Issarasenarak, a former Democrat MP, along with Mr. Somchai Saengkaew, a former Senator, lawyer Mr. Jessada Tonawanik, and Mr. Nitithorn Lamluea, submitted the additional evidence to support their earlier petition. They are asking the NACC to take action against the cabinets of Mr. Settha Thavisin and Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, as well as the 2025 budget committee, MPs, and Senators involved in reallocating the budget. The leaders argue that this action violates Section 144 of the Constitution.
Mr. Chanchai revealed that the documents submitted include 11 items totaling over 1,000 pages, detailing where the funds were borrowed from, when, and for what purpose. He emphasized the importance of a document from the Office of the Council of State, which outlines the necessity of adhering to Section 144 and the Fiscal Discipline Act 2018. This evidence aims to accelerate the NACC's resolution before the Constitutional Court, highlighting the alleged constitutional offense and grounds for removal.
Mr. Chanchai criticized the government for misusing funds intended for specific projects, suggesting a clear legal offense. He mentioned that the government had borrowed money from five banks for various schemes, including the rice pledging scheme, low-interest housing, and loans to Burma. However, instead of using the funds to settle debts, the government allegedly distributed the money for election gain, benefiting MPs and Senators, which Mr. Chanchai argues is unlawful.
Mr. Jessada commented on potential outcomes if the Supreme Court accepts the case, asserting there will be no political vacuum. He outlined two scenarios: either the cabinet members found guilty under Section 144 would be replaced by permanent secretaries, or the People's Party could resign, leading to an election organized by the EC within 45-60 days.
He dismissed claims of intentions to create a political vacuum or pave the way for a coup, affirming that the political system can continue through democratic means. Mr. Jessada urged MPs and Senators to fulfill their duty of safeguarding national funds or face public scrutiny.
Mr. Jessada concluded by emphasizing that the current political situation should not be viewed as creating a vacuum but as an opportunity for transition through democratic elections. He assured that politics can proceed without disruption, dismissing suggestions of a coup as unfounded.