Bangkok: The Election Commission Chairman has revealed that the case of collusion involving the Senate will be managed with care and fairness for all parties. The ECT chairman disclosed that the Senate collusion case has been under the scrutiny of the adjudication subcommittee since September 17, with the committee having 90 days to present its opinion to the ECT for a final decision. The chairman emphasized the meticulousness and equity of the process for all involved parties.
According to Thai News Agency, Election Commission Chairman Itthiporn Boonprakong highlighted that the case involving senator collusion is presently in the adjudication subcommittee, which is the third stage of the investigative process. The subcommittee has a 90-day timeframe to carefully evaluate the evidence and ensure fairness for all parties involved, especially in this case that includes over 100 defendants.
“This case is well-known for its large number of accusations, numbering over 100, and the case file spans thousands of pages. If we are to be fair to anyone, we must take time to thoroughly study the evidence and testify thoroughly, ensuring understanding before making a decision. Making hasty decisions based on feelings would not be fair to anyone, and would be an inappropriate role for our role as part of the justice system,” stated Itthiporn.
The Election Commission’s investigative process includes four levels. Initially, an investigation is conducted, which involves the establishment of the 26th Investigation and Inquiry Subcommittee operating within a four-month framework (120 days). The second level involved submission to the Election Commission Secretary-General for consideration and opinion on July 17, with a 60-day timeframe.
Most recently, on September 17, the case progressed to the third level, the Subcommittee for Adjudication, which has a 90-day period to complete its work. Subsequently, it will be forwarded to the Election Commission meeting for a decision on whether to pursue legal action, within a 90-day framework. Historically, the committee meeting typically concludes its vote within 15 days from receiving the case.