Pheu Thai Denies Orange Senators, Challenges Election Commission
Pheu Thai deputy leader Rangsiman Rome denied protecting so-called orange senators and called for uniform standards in investigating alleged misconduct, arguing the Election Commission should focus on proving fraud schemes rather than debat
At 9:30 a.m. on September 17, 2026, at Parliament, Rangsiman Rome, Pheu Thai list MP and party deputy leader, commented on reports that the Election Commission has three pending cases involving so-called orange senators linked to Pheu Thai and Move Forward Party. No senator has actually defined themselves as an orange senator, he said, but the label emerged from intense opposition and civil society scrutiny, leading some to argue "if I'm corrupt, you must be too"—a strange logic.
Rome stated that Pheu Thai has never protected or sought preferential treatment for one group of senators over another, but demands uniform standards. If there is evidence of wrongdoing, whether by Pheu Thai senators, independent senators, or blue senators, all should face the same approach. He asked critics to clarify who actually defines orange senators, noting that blue senators are clearly identifiable.
Rome stressed the importance of distinguishing between different types of misconduct. Defining what constitutes senator fraud—whether hiring unqualified candidates to vote-pledge for a party, payment schemes, or political involvement—must be clear. This differs from citizens organizing themselves online to discuss and promote candidates, he explained.
Rome said this is not about whether orange senators win or lose. Any behavior involving senator fraud, regardless of former party affiliation or color, must be addressed. The Election Commission must act decisively, not debate whose senators they are, but whether fraud schemes exist and pursue the money trails and phone connections involved.
