BANGKOK: Senator Angkana Neelapaijit has voiced concerns about potential misconduct among outsider committee members in Parliament, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to uphold integrity within governmental committees. The call to action follows revelations about the involvement of non-member influences in parliamentary affairs, particularly relating to the handling of cases by the Senate Committee on Political Development, Public Participation, Human Rights, Liberties, and Consumer Protection.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Angkana, who also chairs the aforementioned Senate committee, addressed the issue during a parliamentary session. She highlighted the ongoing investigation into THE iCON GROUP, where a significant number of victims reported exploitation due to legal loopholes. The investigation aims to invite victims and relevant individuals for testimonies to better understand the misuse of direct sales laws and consumer protection statutes.
Ms. Angkana also referred to an audio cli
p that allegedly captures lobbying efforts aimed at influencing the Consumer Protection Board and the committee itself. She stressed that the involvement of outsider advisors, who might not be fully participating in the committee’s activities, poses a risk to the integrity of parliamentary operations. These advisors, whether compensated or not, often do not actively contribute to meetings or discussions, raising concerns about their actual role and influence.
The senator’s remarks underscore the necessity for Parliament to rigorously examine the appointment and roles of all committee members, compensated or not, to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure transparency and accountability in governmental processes. Ms. Angkana advocates for a culture of accountability where appointments are scrutinized without bias, ensuring that parliamentary positions are not misused for personal or party gains.