Bangkok: Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the Prachachon Party, has come forward in defense of Rangsiman Rome, an MP from the same party, who is currently facing a defamation lawsuit. Rome is being sued by attorney Thanadol Suwannarit, representing Mr. Ben Smith (Benjamin Mauerberger), with a claim for 100 million baht in civil damages. The lawsuit stems from Rome’s statements during a parliamentary debate on the government’s policy statement.

According to Thai News Agency, Natthaphong asserts that Rome’s actions within parliament were honest and factual, and should not be construed as defamatory. He highlighted that Rome’s debate did not involve accusations, but rather the presentation of facts, specifically mentioning the connection of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao, to Mr. Ben Smith. Natthaphong also raised concerns about the possible connection between the suing lawyer and Lt. Col. Thammanat, urging the public to consider whether the lawsuit is an attempt to silence Rome’s parliamentary work.

Natthaphong emphasized the need for society to discern if the lawsuit qualifies as a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP), which is often used to intimidate or censor critics. He pointed out that Lt. Col. Thammanat’s invitation to dinner in Phayao Province might provide insight into the lawsuit’s intentions.

He further explained that parliamentary debate regulations allow for damages claims if an external party is mentioned, offering a mechanism for those affected to seek an apology through the Speaker of the House. Natthaphong believes this is a normal democratic process and that public figures should be open to critique without facing legal repercussions.

In a related matter, Natthaphong addressed the case of Mr. Chulapong Yookes, another People’s Party MP, who issued an apology to Mr. Newin Chidchob, president of Buriram United Football Club, following a no-confidence debate concerning Khao Kradong. Natthaphong stated that a disciplinary committee has been formed to address this issue, and any progress should follow due process.