Bangkok: Reserve senators have expressed frustration with the Election Commission (EC) for establishing a subcommittee over two months ago, which only held its first meeting recently.
According to Thai News Agency, the senators criticized the EC for delaying the process and demanded that it be expedited within 15 days instead of the extended 90-day period. They warned that failure to act promptly would result in legal action, as the delay raises concerns about attempts to appoint favored individuals to independent organizations.
A group of reserve senators, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Khamrob Panya Kaew and Mr. Thanawat Srisuk, formally urged the EC and the 36th Subcommittee on the Adjudication of Problems or Controversies to address the 2024 Senate election corruption case with integrity and fairness. Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob emphasized that the EC had not communicated with the reserve senators, expressing dissatisfaction over the perceived preferential treatment given to accused individuals holding high government positions.
The senators noted that despite being aware of the subcommittee’s establishment on September 25th, it only convened its first meeting on November 4th. They questioned the lack of progress despite claims of substantial evidence, urging a swift review within 10-15 days to avoid further delays. The senators highlighted concerns about the EC’s potential influence over the appointment of new members and emphasized the public’s role in monitoring the situation closely.
Thanawat Srisuk echoed these sentiments, criticizing the absence of public communication following the subcommittee’s meeting. He expressed frustration over the lack of updates from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the Ministry of Justice since the change in government. The reserve senators have sought a meeting with the Minister of Justice to discuss the electoral collusion case but have yet to receive a response. They vowed to continue their efforts until the Election Commission forwards the case to court, expressing determination to hold accountable those responsible for delays.
Thanawat further alleged that the delay was not due to awaiting a Constitutional Court ruling but rather an attempt to influence the selection of new EC members. He warned against conflicts of interest and urged transparency, emphasizing public scrutiny and the anticipation of upcoming elections.