Opposition Vows to Sue Election Commission Over Alleged Bias
Opposition lawmakers vow legal action against Thailand's Election Commission, accusing it of selective enforcement and bias in investigating senators based on political affiliation rather than evidence.
Rangsiman Rom, a Pheu Thai list-based MP and deputy party leader, gave a statement on September 19 at the Bangkok Art Museum regarding the Election Commission's preparation to consider a case involving opposition senators. He emphasized the focus should be on evidence and witnesses, and questioned whether the commission's actions represent duty or retaliation.
Rom stated that the opposition has substantial evidence from the Special Investigation Department (DSI) regarding alleged vote-buying and organized criminal activity. He questioned the commission's motivation, noting the lack of urgency in pursuing cases involving pro-government senators despite similar evidence. "We must ask whether the Election Commission is performing its duty or seeking revenge," Rom said.
When asked if the opposition senators' case represented retaliation, Rom replied that Pheu Thai had nothing to retaliate for, but questioned the commission's impartiality in applying standards differently to different political sides. He confirmed Pheu Thai would proceed with Article 157 charges against the Election Commission, citing substantial evidence beyond mere witness testimony. Rom emphasized the party's focus is on evidence, not political color, and that the alleged schemes resembled organized criminal activity involving structured payments and institutional abuse.
