Pisal Could Face Expulsion for Failing to Attend Court Hearing

The Pheu Thai Party has pledged to take decisive action against its party-list MP Gen Pisal Wattanawongkiri if he returns to Thailand following the expiration of the statute of limitations in the Tak Bai case.

Sorawong Thienthong, the party’s secretary-general, stated on Sunday that Gen Pisal would retain his position as an MP even if the party opts to expel him, addressing concerns regarding the party’s approach to bringing him to justice.

“The party is not apprehensive that the Tak Bai case will tarnish its popularity in the Deep South, as this is a personal issue and Gen Pisal has the opportunity to return and prove his innocence,” he noted.

However, Sorawong underscored that the party is prepared to take action, which may include expulsion, if Gen Pisal returns after October 25. The MP is currently on medical leave abroad, a period that exceeds the statute of limitations.

Gen Pisal previously served as the commander of the Fourth Army Region involved in the Tak Bai massacre, which took place on October 25, 2004, when security forces dispersed a protest outside a police station in Tak Bai district, Narathiwat province.

The protestors were demanding the release of six detainees, and it is estimated that over 80 individuals lost their lives during the violent dispersal and subsequent transport of detainees by the police.

The 20-year statute of limitations will conclude on October 25, meaning that if any suspects are not brought to trial by this date, they will no longer face criminal liability. The Narathiwat Provincial Court has already issued an arrest warrant for Gen Pisal.

In the meantime, the Thai Sang Thai (TST) Party has urged the government to take action in the Tak Bai case, expressing concern over the perceived indifference in pursuing the suspects.

The TST emphasized that unless the government shows a firm commitment to achieving justice for the victims and their families, the situation could deteriorate and further destabilize the Deep South. They also highlighted the need for the government to address this issue in light of the country being selected as a UNHRC member for the 2025-2027 term, advocating for an official apology from the government.