Lawmakers Under Scrutiny Over S112 Legislation
PUBLISHED: 9 Aug 2024 at 06:15
An investigation has been initiated into the ethical conduct of 44 politicians from the recently dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP) who supported a controversial bill aimed at revising the lese majeste law, according to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC).
NACC Secretary-General Niwatchai Kasemmongkol stated that grounds for the inquiry have been established, and investigators will pursue the case against the MFP MPs involved.
The investigation follows a petition filed in February by a legal representative who urged the Constitutional Court to halt the MFP’s campaign efforts related to changes in Section 112 of the Criminal Code.
This petition references a ruling from the Constitutional Court which determined that the MFP’s attempt to amend the lese majeste law was an effort to undermine the constitutional monarchy.
Mr. Niwatchai confirmed that NACC investigators are in the process of gathering evidence and statements. Once the preliminary findings are complete, the 44 MPs will be summoned to address the allegations against them.
“Relying solely on the Constitutional Court ruling for this investigation would not be fair to those accused,” he emphasized.
NACC member Ekkawit Watchawalkhu stated that the inquiry must be thorough and deliberate, ensuring that all accused individuals are afforded the opportunity to defend themselves.
The investigation will comprehensively examine all relevant facts and legal considerations, including the implications of the Constitutional Court ruling.
Mr. Theerayut has indicated plans to submit comprehensive details of the August 7 ruling against the MFP to the NACC next week to aid in the ongoing investigation.
The court ruling is legally binding across all relevant agencies. Should the NACC find the MFP MPs at fault, the matter will subsequently be referred to the Supreme Court for Political Position Holders.
If guilt is established, the politicians could face bans from future elections.
Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has already pressed the NACC through an urgent letter to promptly advance the case against the 44 politicians to the Supreme Court, asserting that the Constitutional Court decisions can serve as sufficient evidence for this course of action.
