Opposition Leader Pushes Gun Control Law Amid School Threats
Pheu Thai's Natthapong calls for stronger gun control laws and equal enforcement after schools face threats nationwide, warning that tougher penalties alone won't work without proper implementation.
On August 14 at parliament, Natthapong Ruengpanya, list MP and Pheu Thai party leader, addressed the copycat threat situation affecting schools nationwide. He expressed condolences for losses and concern that many schools have received threatening messages, warning these could cause school disruptions even if not credible. He called on school administrators to strengthen security measures.
Regarding firearms control, Natthapong noted that Pheu Thai is preparing amendments beyond just tougher penalties, emphasizing that enforcement is equally vital. He cautioned that stronger laws without proper enforcement could become tools for corrupt officials to extort benefits. When asked about submitting amendments when parliament opens, he said the party is still discussing proposals internally and expects amendments to accompany the government's firearms bill.
On whether politicians deserve guns, Natthapong stressed that everyone, regardless of status or position, must be equal under law and subject to fair enforcement. He criticized disparities in justice, citing images of criminals treated differently from politicians in custody. He emphasized that public trust depends on actual results and actions, not statements, and called the enforcement of equal application of law most important. Regarding gun buyback schemes, he reiterated that the core issue is firearms proliferation in society, and ultimate success hinges on equal law enforcement for all.
