Bangkok: Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, a Member of Parliament from the People's Party and leader of the opposition in the House of Representatives, has called on the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to independently investigate the TH-AI Passport project without waiting for a formal complaint. He emphasized that if the NACC fails to act promptly, it would be considered a dereliction of duty. Mr. Nattapong also criticized the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for the unusual nature of a recent press conference and announced plans by the People's Power Party's legal team to sue government officials who misuse their positions to attack opponents.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong highlighted that Section 14 of the Anti-Collusion Act allows the NACC to initiate an investigation when there are signs of collusion, such as predetermined specifications or price agreements. He insisted that the NACC should act on any evidence of misconduct without waiting for formal evidence or complaints, and that legal action should follow if sufficient proof is found.
During recent committee meetings attended by NACC representatives, Mr. Nattapong urged the commission to focus on conduct and circumstances rather than legal interpretations. He stated that Ms. Rakchanok Srinok, chair of the House's Budget Monitoring Committee, will send observations to the NACC, potentially triggering immediate action. Mr. Nattapong emphasized the need for the NACC to act proactively and without delay.
Mr. Nattapong also addressed comments from Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Mr. Chaiyanok Chidchob, who challenged any investigation into the matter. While viewing the Minister's comments as standard, Mr. Nattapong called for more transparency in the project's implementation and suggested canceling previous procurement processes if public interest was compromised, recommending a new bidding process as per the Public Procurement Act.
In response to questions about Mr. Pawut Pongwitthayaphanu, a list MP from the People's Party, Mr. Nattapong expressed concerns about the DSI's handling of the case, particularly the naming of suspects without revealing the accused. He called for transparency from the DSI and announced that the party's legal team is prepared to file lawsuits against officials who misuse their power for political purposes.
Addressing Mr. Pawut's absence from a recent parliamentary session, Mr. Nattapong deferred the question to Mr. Pawut, noting that any inquiry into the 28 million baht transaction in Mr. Pawut's account should be explained by Mr. Pawut himself, given his trading activities.
Mr. Nattapong concluded by stating that the People's Party has established a fact-finding committee to investigate the matter involving Mr. Pawut, and a team will be formed to gather information and invite Mr. Pawut for clarification. He noted that while no formal investigation akin to a disciplinary action is underway, the party is committed to a thorough internal inquiry.