Bangkok: A petition has been filed with the Election Commission to investigate Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, Phitha Limjaroenrat, and Chaiyathawat Tulathan for allegedly exerting control over the People’s Party (PPC) following their involvement in a recent public event.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Srisuwan Janya, leader of the Patriotic Organization, submitted the complaint to the Registrar of Political Parties and the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT). The petition seeks an inquiry into whether the participation of these individuals in an event titled “People’s Party Meets People: Heartfelt Apologies, Let’s Move Forward Together” amounts to control and direction of the PPC. These individuals were previously disqualified from running for election by the Constitutional Court under the 2017 Political Parties Act, with a ten-year prohibition on political participation.
Mr. Srisuwan argues that the involvement of these former leaders in the People’s Party activities and discussions is evidence of their continued influence and support within the party, despite their disqualification. He claims this involvement could be perceived as control, domination, or directing the party’s activities, which contravenes Section 29 of the Political Parties Act 2017. Violations of this section carry penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The People’s Party itself could face dissolution under Section 92(3) if found to have allowed non-members to control its activities.
When questioned about the possibility of the Election Commission dismissing the case due to a lack of evidence, Mr. Srisuwan stated that the decision would depend on the Commission’s evaluation. However, he emphasized that his evidence is based on social media data and the actions and words of the individuals in question, which suggest manipulation. Should the Commission decline to proceed, Mr. Srisuwan indicated he might escalate the issue to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to pursue legal action against the Election Commission and the Registrar for corruption and ethical violations.