BANGKOK, 3 July 2015 – A number of former ministers under the Yingluck Shinawatra government have acknowledged charges against them at the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) headquarters.
Ten ministers so far have acknowledged the accusations against them. Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and 33 politicians have 15 days to report to the NACC over charges relating to compensation payments to victims during political protests between 2005 and 2010.
The NACC has brought the charges against the 34 politicians, arguing they abused their authority in pushing through a two billion baht compensation scheme.
Former Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul and Former Deputy Defense Minister Sukumpol Suwanatat had earlier submitted a letter refusing to acknowledge the charges and said the investigating panel is not qualified to indict the ministers. The NACC insisted the panel has been set up in accordance with the law and will mail the letters indicating their charges to the two ministers.
Despite the lack of cooperation, the NACC will push ahead with the investigation and eventually rule on the case based on existing evidence.
