Thai Justice Minister Stands Firm Amidst Senators' Defamation Lawsuit

[webfact]

Justice Minister Thavi Sodsong. Picture courtesy f Thai Rath

 

In a bold assertion of principles, Justice Minister Thavi Sodsong declared today his unwavering commitment to uphold justice, despite facing a defamation lawsuit from over 100 senators. These senators accused him of power abuse after he authorised an investigation into alleged senatorial election rigging.

 

The controversy erupted following a probe initiated by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) into claims of electoral interference and money-laundering. Allegedly, these practices granted 138 out of 200 senators their positions during last year's elections. Thavi had explicitly sanctioned this investigation, affirming it was grounded in evidence and aimed to maintain electoral integrity.

 

Thavi insists that the DSI’s investigation, spearheaded by Director-General Yutthana Praedam, is well within legal bounds and essential for justice. Critics, however, argue that Yutthana exceeded his legal remit. The senators' legal action, presented to the National Anti-Corruption Commission, accuses Thavi and Yutthana of misconduct, aiming to undermine their probe.

 

The minister’s courage in facing these allegations highlights the ongoing struggle for transparency in Thai politics. Thavi stated that the investigation will rely heavily on evidence and personal testimonies from over 1,200 former candidates and individuals with ties to the election. They may be called upon to testify, potentially revealing a wider network of electoral corruption.

 

The alleged orchestration points towards political figures within Bhumjaithai, Thailand’s second-largest coalition party. There are accusations linking the 138 senators to Newin Chidchob, a significant political influencer, suggesting he moulded parliamentary behaviour to fit party agendas.

 

A possible outcome for these senators, should the DSI’s findings hold up, includes retroactive salary seizures, stripping them of their seats, and facing criminal charges. Each senator currently earns approximately 74,420 Thai Baht monthly from parliament, which underscores the financial impact of these allegations.

 

The lawsuit against Thavi and Yutthana reflects broader tensions within Thailand’s political landscape, where claims of deep-rooted corruption frequently surface. As this legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen if the DSI can maintain its course amidst political pressure and legal scrutiny.

 

Thavi’s stance symbolises a drive towards cleaner politics, albeit amidst severe challenges and accusations. For Thai citizens, the outcome will significantly impact the trust and transparency they seek in their elected officials, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2025-03-14

 

 

[JoePai]

Now that's a rare sight, a Minister with principles  !

[Tropicalevo]

53 minutes ago, JoePai said:

Now that's a rare sight, a Minister with principles  !

 

Sadly, he won't last long.

eg Pita.

[Keep Right]

1 hour ago, JoePai said:

Now that's a rare sight, a Minister with principles  !

I had the opportunity to meet the Minister at a charity function. He seems to be a very humble man concerned with the daily lives of the Thai citizens and even the people in jail. I was told he is in the process of instituting training programs for the jail inmates to better prepare them upon their release for work. And now, the Minister is being sued by the Senators for his honesty for trying to investigate and release the facts to the citizens. This is very sad and I hope the Minister does not give in to the corrupt Senators.

[hotchilli]

5 hours ago, webfact said:

The alleged orchestration points towards political figures within Bhumjaithai, Thailand’s second-largest coalition party. There are accusations linking the 138 senators to Newin Chidchob, a significant political influencer, suggesting he moulded parliamentary behaviour to fit party agendas.

Say it ain't true... corruption within the senate?

[DPKANKAN]

Surely the Senators should be happy for this investigation!!!! If they have done nothing wrong it would prove their innocense !!!!😏😏😏😏

[Hunz Kittisak]

This is Thaksin’s way to remind newin who is boss. One thing in Thai politics for the past decades is never to bet against Thaksin.