Bangkok: As the Senate moved forward with a critical vote to establish independent organizations and appoint Constitutional Court judges, minority senators staged a dramatic walkout. Despite a lengthy three-hour debate, the motion progressed, prompting the minority's protest due to alleged conflicts of interest. Over 100 senators faced accusations of collusion, with threats of ethical lawsuits looming if the vote continued. Chatwat defended his senatorial duties, criticizing the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for improper conduct.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Mongkol Surassajja, President of the Senate, presided over the session. He informed attendees about the secretive nature of voting on nominees for the National Anti-Corruption Commission, emphasizing the use of personal ballots. Urgent matters, including a proposal by Mr. Thewarit Maneechai to delay forming a committee to investigate nominees' backgrounds, were prioritized. This delay aimed to allow ongoing legal proceedings involving several senators as petitioners and defendants to conclude without interference.
Mr. Thewarit expressed gratitude for the postponement, highlighting concerns over unfair processes, such as media disclosures and the involvement of the Minister of Justice overseeing the DSI. He urged for the independence of investigations, noting the conflict of interest in approving nominees while many senators faced accusations. The proposal was part of efforts to maintain credibility and prevent bias in the justice system, especially as allegations against senators brought significant scrutiny.
Senator Nantana Nantvaropas emphasized the importance of transparency, urging members to consider public opinion before any vote. She argued that approving nominees amidst ongoing investigations would raise questions of governance and reciprocity. She noted the unprecedented nature of the situation, with over half the Senate facing accusations, necessitating a cautious approach to uphold ethical standards and avoid a governance vacuum.
Dr. Premsak Piayura supported delaying the appointments until allegations were resolved. He warned against hasty decisions, citing past political upheavals linked to independent organizations' influence. Dr. Premsak highlighted the need for transparency in the appointment process to avoid undermining public trust and emphasized the danger of unchecked appointments that could lead to a governance crisis.
Lt. Cdr. Wuttipong Phongsuwan echoed concerns, advocating for a postponement to allow investigations to conclude. He warned that proceeding without clearing allegations could erode public confidence. He urged senators to prioritize transparency and accountability to maintain the Senate's integrity.
Pol. Col. Chatchawan Saengphet and Pol. Lt. Col. Chatwarat defended their positions, criticizing the DSI's handling of the investigation into alleged collusion. They stressed the need for procedures to follow established rules and timelines, arguing that current investigations did not undermine their ethical standing.
Ultimately, the Senate voted against Mr. Thewarit's motion by 125 votes to 37, with 12 abstentions, allowing the agenda to proceed. The decision led to a walkout by minority senators, including Mr. Premsak and Ms. Nantana, who refused to participate in the committee's formation in protest. The session concluded amidst heightened tensions, with public scrutiny on the Senate's next steps.