Bangkok: Reserve senators have taken a decisive step by submitting a request to the Election Commission (EC) to expedite the receipt of case files concerning collusion in the selection of senators from the investigation team. Their aim is to ensure that the case is swiftly processed and submitted to the Supreme Court, amid concerns that delays may result in only a few defendants being left by the time it reaches the main EC.
According to Thai News Agency, the group of reserve senators, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob Panyakaew, submitted a letter to the EC urging them to expedite the acceptance of the case file from the 26th investigation team. This team, which includes Pol. Lt. Col. Chanin Noi Lek as chairman, comprises seven director-level members from the EC office and officers from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). The investigation successfully indicted 229 individuals, commencing with information provided by the DSI in a letter dated February 3, 2025.
The 26th Investigation Committee was specifically established to handle this matter. Throughout the investigation, the committee consulted with the entire EC and received approval to pursue action against all relevant parties, as outlined in the Organic Act on the Acquisition of Senators B.E. 2561. This includes the detention of certain individuals as witnesses.
The reserve senators have proposed that the EC office, under the deputy secretary-general’s responsibility, should expedite the preparation of their opinion within three days. They argue that the 26th investigation team, led by qualified individuals, has already gathered comprehensive evidence, including documentary evidence such as telephones, money trails, and AI data.
Further, they believe that there is no need to establish a subcommittee to decide on the issue or dispute, as the entire EC Committee has been closely involved and aware of the investigation’s proceedings. They argue this is in accordance with the EC’s investigation regulations, which allow the EC to bypass the subcommittee stage if deemed unnecessary.
The reserve senators stress the importance of maintaining the confidentiality of the case and ensuring the safety of witnesses. They believe that the case proceedings are complete and urge the EC to expedite their consideration with responsibility, avoiding neglect of duty by resigning as some EC members have reportedly done. They emphasize the need for detailed documentation of the decision’s reasoning to be sent to the Election Court Division of the Supreme Court.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob expressed concerns about potential reductions in the number of party executives and senators involved in the case by the time it reaches the EC committee level. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the law, noting that any attempts at lobbying or manipulation would be unacceptable to the Thai people.