Bangkok: Legal experts have raised concerns over allegations of corruption involving Bangkok City Council members through the practice of proxy voting. According to Thai News Agency, the controversy arose during the Bangkok Metropolitan Council meeting No. 2/2569, where it was reported that certain council members cast votes on behalf of others, violating the principles of transparency and accountability. The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has been identified as the body authorized to investigate these allegations, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Criminal Court for Corruption Cases.
The incident has drawn parallels to past occurrences in Thailand's political history, where proxy voting led to significant legal repercussions. Dr. Nattawut Wongniem, a public law expert, cited a 2012 case involving Members of Parliament (MPs) who used proxy voting to pass a bill during former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra's administration. The Constitutional Court invalidated the bill, citing a lack of quorum due to proxy voting. Furthermore, under the 2017 Constitution, three MPs were sentenced to imprisonment for similar offenses, illustrating the legal consequences of such actions.
The BMA councilors involved in the current allegations are considered political civil servants under the National Anti-Corruption Commission Act. Despite their political status, these councilors do not qualify as officials under the Penal Code. The evidence from the recent council meeting suggests that a People's Party councilor was not present, yet their voting card was used. Past failures to justify such actions have resulted in Supreme Court convictions, and the NACC has consistently forwarded similar cases for legal action.
The situation raises questions about the People's Party's campaign promises of "transparency and accountability." The public is questioning whether the actions of the council members align with their electoral commitments. Dr. Nat emphasized that the authority to adjudicate this matter lies with the NACC, with penalties outlined in the Anti-Corruption Act. The Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases holds jurisdiction over such matters, distinguishing it from election-related fraud cases.
The unfolding events have cast a spotlight on the need for stringent adherence to ethical standards in political conduct, with the outcome of the investigation likely to have significant implications for the involved parties and the political landscape in Bangkok.