Thaksin Refutes Claims of Targeting Pro-Bhumjaithai Senators

[webfact]

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath

 

Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, has firmly denied any involvement in actions against pro-Bhumjaithai senators, who are currently under scrutiny for suspected electoral malpractice. Speaking on March 14th, Thaksin emphasised that he harboured no animosity towards these senators or any prominent lawmakers, distancing himself from the legal proceedings led by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).

 

These proceedings have entangled a significant number of senators—up to 138—who are suspected of vote-buying and money-laundering tied to last year's complex electoral process.

 

Thaksin insisted he lacked the authority to direct any government body to act against the senators, who face serious allegations of election interference potentially orchestrated by politically influential figures.

 

The focus of these investigations lies within the DSI, tasked with exploring the possibility of illicit financial activities linked to electoral rigging. This case, considered highly significant due to the implication of numerous senators, could involve up to 1,200 witnesses examined under the agency's purview.

 

Justice Minister Thavi Sodsong, tasked with overseeing the DSI's operations, approved its chief, Yutthana Praedam, to delve into these allegations.

 

The outcome could potentially lead to a suspension of any implicated senators from their legislative responsibilities, along with a temporary halt to their compensation during ongoing court proceedings.

 

If the court concludes with guilty verdicts, the implicated senators face immediate loss of their positions and possible criminal convictions. Additionally, any political party proven to have orchestrated such fraud could face dissolution from a court directive.

 

In an intriguing twist, Thaksin acknowledged recent private discussions with Newin Chidchob, the de facto head of Bhumjaithai, and party leader Anutin Charnvirakul at his residence, Chan Song Lah House. While specifics of their meeting remain undisclosed, the electoral scandals were among the issues reportedly discussed.

 

Thaksin, however, underscored that his role was limited to providing "advice," suggesting no ulterior motives or direct involvement in the legal actions presently underway.

 

These developments highlight complex political manoeuvrings within Thailand's political sphere, as the nation's governance confronts these serious allegations.

 

The situation remains fluid, with significant implications for Thailand’s legislative stability and political landscape depending on the investigation's findings and judicial outcomes, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2025-03-15

 

 

[JoePai]

Thaksin, however, underscored that his role was limited to providing "advice"

 

Advice in this context  meams brown envelops and promises for the future...