Issues for Pheu Thai MP Amid Potential Legal Prosecution Due to Police Inaction
PUBLISHED : 25 Sep 2024 at 21:28
Opposition MP Romadon Panjor has called on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to expedite legal proceedings concerning suspects in two cases related to the 2004 Tak Bai massacre, as critical deadlines approach. With only a month remaining until the 20-year statute of limitations expires on October 25, the public is urged to support monitoring efforts by the main opposition party.
“Prime Minister Paetongtarn has the power to act more decisively in her leadership role,” stated Romadon, emphasizing her authority to direct Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai to ensure that the police and security forces take timely actions in moving these cases forward.
Currently, no progress has been made by authorities to bring Gen Pisal Wattanawongkiri, a Pheu Thai MP, to trial despite a request from the Court of Justice for prosecution. Gen Pisal asserts parliamentary immunity, complicating legal efforts, according to Romadon.
Gen Pisal is among seven suspects in a case assessing the response of security forces during a protest at the Tak Bai police station in Narathiwat on October 25, 2004. Seven protesters were killed by gunfire while attempting to disperse the demonstration, and an additional 78 died due to being overcrowded in army trucks during transport.
While then-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra issued an apology for the Tak Bai incident, accountability remains elusive, as no individuals have been prosecuted for the deaths. House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha clarified that as long as Gen Pisal’s court appearances do not disrupt his legislative duties, prosecution remains viable.
Both Gen Pisal and six co-defendants failed to appear during the initial witness examination on September 12. Although arrest warrants were issued for six individuals, the Justice Minister indicated there has been no warrant issued for Gen Pisal as of Tuesday.
Romadon believes Gen Pisal will finally face trial on October 15, after House meetings are paused. Additionally, the Attorney-General announced on September 12 that eight more suspects, including a former commander of the 5th Infantry Division, will be indicted. The responsibility now falls on law enforcement and security authorities to ensure these individuals are brought to justice.
In an unexpected development, the Internal Security Operations Command has scheduled a meeting for September 30 to address potential plans should the statute of limitations expire without legal action.
