BANGKOK, Thailand – The Special Case Board has postponed its vote on the Senate election collusion case, opting to invite the Election Commission (EC) chairman for clarification on March 5 before making a final decision on March 6. The meeting saw divided opinions, with some members arguing that the case should first go through the Special Case Screening Subcommittee, while others suggested only criminal aspects should be accepted for investigation. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai assured that the case would not affect the coalition government’s relationship between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, along with Justice Minister Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong and Department of Special Investigation (DSI) Director-General Pol. Maj. Col. Yutthana Praedam, held a press conference following the board meeting. Phumtham stated that the Senate election issue had raised significant public concern, prompting a review by the DSI. The three-hour meeting reflected differing viewpoints, with many board members considering the case potentially linked to criminal offenses such as money laundering and organized crime. However, concerns were raised over the election-related aspects, which the EC had yet to officially clarify.
Phumtham emphasized the need for a thorough legal review to ensure due process, as the initial referral from the EC came from the secretary rather than an official board decision. Since the Special Case Board secretary, who is also the DSI chief, deemed the matter urgent, it was presented to the board without prior review by the subcommittee. This led to objections from some members, who insisted on following standard procedures. Given the case’s national significance and strong public interest, the board decided to refer it back to the subcommittee for proper vetting before reconsidering it on March 6.
Additionally, the EC chairman is scheduled to return from an overseas trip on March 5, and the board will consult with him before reconvening. The criminal aspects of the case appear to be undisputed, but the board awaits the EC’s stance on election-related matters.
Phumtham reiterated that the case is being handled based on legal principles, without political interference, and that if the DSI fails to act, it could be held accountable. He denied any intent to pressure or retaliate against anyone, stating that the courts would ultimately decide on the matter.
When asked why the DSI had yet to reach a resolution despite handling the criminal aspects, Phumtham explained that legal jurisdiction remained a key question. Given strong public interest, the DSI must carefully verify the case’s merit while ensuring the government does not overstep its authority. He insisted that the legal process must take its course without political bias.
Regarding concerns about political tensions within the coalition government, Phumtham clarified that the legal case and political relationships were separate matters. He dismissed speculation of political motives, stressing that the investigation was proceeding as per legal requirements.
Sources from the meeting revealed intense debate over legal technicalities, with the Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry objecting to the DSI chief’s decision to present the case without subcommittee review. Meanwhile, the Council of State’s secretary-general argued that the case fell under the EC’s jurisdiction. Several independent experts suggested that only the criminal aspects should be classified as a special case, while representatives from other ministries expressed differing opinions.
A final decision on whether to proceed with the case as a special investigation will be made on March 6 after consultations with the EC chairman. (TNA)
