Maha Sarakham Candidate Sentenced Over Rape Case in Laos

A People’s Party candidate in Maha Sarakham, Teerawat Phanna, has been sentenced to two years and eight months in prison over a rape case in Laos. The conviction has sparked criticism of the party's candidate screening practices. The Supreme Court of Laos found him guilty of drugging and sexually assaulting a former record label artist on January 18, 2020.

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Teerawat, a local business operator, ran for Maha Sarakham constituency 1 in the recent General Election. Despite concerns raised by Phattarapong Warnnaphong, a former Move Forward Party member, about Teerawat's criminal charges, the party still nominated him, citing the absence of a final verdict at the time. The case only reached a conclusion after more than six years of legal battles.

The incident attracted wider attention when the victim's lawyer shared the court's decision on Facebook on February 19. Thai media reported that the victim, after regaining consciousness, sought help and filed a police report in Laos before continuing legal action in Thailand. Evidence, including the medicine used to drug her, was presented in court, supporting the conviction.

Teerawat received a four-year prison sentence, reduced to two years and eight months, and must pay 200,000 baht in compensation with additional interest. Phattarapong criticized the People’s Party for nominating him despite his admission to having engaged in sexual activity under questionable circumstances. Allegations of inadequate candidate screening by the party have been raised repeatedly by both critics and supporters.

Looking forward, the party has issued apologies and promised to tighten its candidate selection process to prevent similar incidents. This case has prompted discussions on the importance of rigorous background checks for political candidates. As the party works to rebuild its reputation, the spotlight remains on its internal reforms and future electoral strategies, reported The Thaiger.

Key Takeaways

• Teerawat Phanna sentenced to 2 years, 8 months over rape case.

• Concerns raised about People’s Party candidate screening process.

• The party pledges improved candidate selection following criticism.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 20 Feb 2026