Parliament Speaker: DSI Warrant for Legislators Needs Assembly Approval

Parliament Speaker Sophon Saranmee held a press conference on September 23, 2569 regarding the Forex-3D case involving People's Party list MP Phawut Phongwittaypanu, for which the Department of Special Investigation is preparing arrest and summons warrants. Saranmee explained that when accusations are made against a member during parliamentary session, approval must be sought from the assembly regardless of warrant type. If the assembly grants permission, proceedings can continue; if not, parliamentary privilege as established in the Constitution protects the member. In principle, all cases require approval, though individual members may waive this protection. The Constitution clearly stipulates that parliamentary consent must be obtained. When asked whether a full chamber vote is needed even if a member voluntarily waives privilege, Saranmee cited the precedent of former Samut Songkhram Democrat MP Rangsima Rotrasmaey, who declined protection, though most cases typically involve voting. On Somchai Tecahawarchoen, the Phuket People's Party MP facing possible legal action over nominee land holdings, Saranmee stated the same procedures apply. As parliamentary members, both have constitutional privilege that the assembly cannot override unless they voluntarily waive it; however, the assembly has already declined to grant permission under standing practice. Regarding the opposition's planned no-confidence motion later this month, Saranmee assured that he will not block it, as it is the opposition's right to scrutinize, provided procedures are followed. He emphasized that under constitutional rules, the Speaker has no discretion to reject motions that comply with regulations.