DSI Involvement Accelerates Investigation Into 53 Senators
PUBLISHED: 11 May 2025 at 06:38
The Election Commission (EC) confirmed the issuance of summons to six of the 53 senators implicated in vote-rigging during last year’s Senate election. Officials assert they possess sufficient evidence to support charges against these individuals.
EC Chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong stated that the summons process provides an opportunity for the senators to present their evidence and clarify their positions.
Post-clarification, an EC committee and investigators will have 90 days to analyze the evidence before presenting their findings to the EC secretary-general, who will require an additional 60 days for review.
Subsequently, the EC sub-committee will determine whether to close the case or continue further investigations.
Should the case progress to the Supreme Court’s Election Division, any senators involved will face immediate suspension from their duties.
The decision on whether to summon more senators will depend on the inquiry committee led by EC Deputy Secretary-General Chanin Noilek.
This special committee includes both EC officials and members from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI).
When questioned about potential new Senate elections if senators are removed from office, Ittiporn indicated that any decision would depend on the number of vacancies created.
Ittiporn also highlighted that the DSI’s involvement has expedited the investigation, as they can access more extensive evidence, which strengthens the case.
Senator Sorachart Wichayasuwannaprom, who has been summoned, reported being notified to appear before the EC’s inquiry committee on May 19, although he may seek a postponement.
Sorachart expressed concerns regarding the summons process, suggesting that notifications may be arbitrarily issued.
He speculated that the EC might have selectively targeted a few senators from professional groups involved in the election rather than acting on suspicious behavior alone.
Additionally, Sorachart insinuated that the DSI may have influenced the issuance of these summons, as a significant portion of the evidence originates from their investigations.
