Bangkok: Special Case Board postpones voting on collusion in senator selection case, invites EC chairman to clarify on 5 Mar before deciding again on 6 Mar. There is a split in the voices, arguing to send the case screening subcommittee according to procedure first, while some committee members propose to accept only cases related to criminal cases. "Phumtham" insists that it will not affect relations with the "Pheu Thai-Bhumjaithai" coalition parties.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister, along with Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice, and Pol. Lt. Col. Yuthana Phraedam, Director-General of the DSI, jointly announced the results of the special case board meeting. Mr. Phumtham said that today, the issue of the selection of senators, which has been questioned a lot by the public and has been filed with the DSI, was brought into consideration. The meeting lasted 3 hours and there were quite a variety of opinions. Most people thought that this case was likely related to criminal cases, money laundering, and gangsters, and that the actions were in accordance with the specified laws. However, there was still a controversial issue that we should be careful about, which is the election case that the EC has not yet clearly informed.
Mr. Phumtham revealed that the secretary mentioned he did not read the resolution on this matter even though it had been forwarded. Thus, clarity in the process was necessary to end doubts and prevent issues. The meeting ordered complete proceedings, as the secretary of the special case board considered it urgent and important. Without undergoing the special case screening subcommittee, the agenda was brought to the board, leading to objections. It was viewed as a significant issue concerning the country's institutions, garnering public interest. Therefore, the DSI subcommittee was tasked to proceed according to procedures, with a resolution expected within a week.
In addition, the Election Commission Chairman said that when he returns from abroad on March 5, a meeting will be arranged. On March 6, the Special Case Committee and the Election Commission Chairman or his representative will convene to reach a conclusion. The Special Case Committee sees no problem in the criminal case, while the EC will decide on the election case.
Mr. Phumtham emphasized the absence of political involvement, stating it was an act of duty. If not addressed, the DSI would face culpability. Doubts must be handled through due process, with accountability for actions taken. There is no pressure or indication of wrongdoing, leaving decisions to the court. Legal authority issues persist, and public interest necessitates careful handling without executive interference.
Mr. Phumtham addressed the perception of political matters between coalition parties, insisting on separation between political and case matters. Decisions should not be emotion-driven. The EC's investigation of senators is ongoing, with parallel handling of criminal and election cases. Clarity is expected by March 6, following the special case screening subcommittee's procedure. Fairness is prioritized, and if the case proceeds, a swift resolution is anticipated.
The news report noted intense legal debate in the meeting. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior objected to the DSI Director-General's agenda inclusion without subcommittee screening. The Secretary-General of the Council of State deemed it the EC's responsibility. Several qualified committee members advocated for accepting only the criminal case as a special case. Representatives from other ministries expressed differing views.