Bangkok: Crowds have gathered to file complaints against Bhumtham Wechayachai for submitting a request for royal approval to dissolve Parliament, which has been alleged to violate Sections 112 and 157 of the Criminal Code. Rumors suggest that the Royal Decree to dissolve Parliament has faced rejection due to irregularities and objections from the Council of State regarding its lack of authority. Anutin has stated that it remains merely news until the government provides clarification.
According to Thai News Agency, political activist Taikorn Pholsuwan and New Democracy Party MP Suratin Picharn have filed a complaint with the Anti-Corruption Division against Mr. Bhumtham for alleged violations. They argue that the attempt to submit a royal decree lacked the appropriate authority and was, therefore, inappropriate.
Mr. Taikorn claimed that Mr. Bhumtham had submitted the decree to the Bureau of the Royal Household, which was subsequently returned to the Office of the Cabinet Secretariat. Despite this, the Pheu Thai Party and Mr. Bhumtham have continued efforts to convene a Council of State meeting to issue a new Royal Decree, which is seen as inappropriate.
Additionally, Mr. Supachai Jaisamut from the Bhumjaithai Party filed a complaint against Mr. Bhumtham under Section 157, alleging misconduct. Mr. Supachai argues that the acting prime minister did not possess the authority to submit a royal decree, as confirmed by the Secretary-General of the Council of State, Mr. Pakorn Nilprapan. This was deemed potentially offensive to His Majesty the King.
Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has also prepared to file a complaint against Bhumtham, citing historical precedents showing that only sitting prime ministers have dissolved Parliament since 1938. He plans to direct the complaint to the National Anti-Corruption Commission, considering potential violations, including corruption and misconduct, and possibly Section 112.
Attorney Decha Kittidecha Kittiwittayanan commented on the constitutional criteria for dissolving Parliament, highlighting that the King holds the power to dissolve the House of Representatives. However, the acting Prime Minister’s authority in this matter remains a point of contention. If the royal decree is signed by the King, the legal debate would be resolved.