Thai DSI Poised to Decide on Senate Election Probe

[webfact]

File photo courtesy of Thai Rath

 

The Department of Special Investigation's (DSI) special cases board is set to announce this Thursday whether it will delve into alleged collusion related to last year's Senate election. The impending decision is a focal point following remarks by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong.

 

Originally expected last Tuesday, the decision was deferred due to a need for further scrutiny. The delay allows the board, chaired by Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, to thoroughly consider the complexities before making a judgment.

 

Although the Justice Minister has refrained from predicting the board's decision, he acknowledged the existence of further evidence that hasn't yet reached the media's attention. This includes a list comprising 1,200 names, discovered on the day of the Senate election at Muang Thong Thani estate in Nonthaburi, where final voting was held.

 

The list, which names Senate candidates and current senators, has no leaks attributed to the DSI, as per Pol Col Tawee. It's essential to note that being on this list doesn't inherently suggest wrongdoing or collusion.

 

Following the document's leak, DSI spokesman Pol Maj Gen Woranan Srilam confirmed their awareness but also denied DSI's involvement in distributing it. As discussions progress, a Senate petition calls into question both the Justice Minister and the DSI chief, suggesting abuse of authority, though Pol Col Tawee insists the investigation lacks political bias.

Complicating matters, the Council of State (CoS) raised queries about the DSI's jurisdiction over such investigations. Pol Col Tawee contends that CoS concerns pertain solely to principle and respecting the autonomy of independent agencies.

 

The murky waters of this investigation prompted unsuccessful candidates to urge parliament president Wan Muhamad Noor Matha to commence an ethics inquiry. Their concern is that some senators' actions might hinder the DSI’s exploration into possible vote manipulation.

 

Amidst this backdrop, Sen Chattawat Saengphet plans to table a motion focused on justice administration within the Senate on Tuesday. His motion seeks clarification on the roles played by the Justice Ministry and the DSI in handling high-profile cases amid rising scrutiny.

 

As the DSI prepares to make its decisive announcement, the story unfolds with both anticipation and caution. This significant step could redefine how legal investigations into political elections transpire in Thailand and could have a lasting impact on the nation's democratic integrity, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-03-04

 

 

 

[Geoffggi]

One can only presume the steps taken will be in line with normality - Sideways ...............LOL

[Aussie999]

Let me predict... nothing illegal will be found....