Pheu Thai Party Denies Silencing Allegation in Sexual Harassment Case

The Pheu Thai Party has clarified the facts in a case involving former member Thisanee Chunhawan, who publicly alleged she was sexually harassed by a Move Forward parliamentarian but was silenced by the party to protect its image. The party's statement explains that party executives were made aware when Thisanee disclosed the incident to Picharn Chaowpattanawong, then Move Forward's deputy leader, who reported it to party secretary Chaitawat Tulathon as a serious matter warranting investigation and disciplinary action. However, Thisanee at that time stated she only wanted to inform Picharn of what happened but did not want the party to take any action and refused to reveal the alleged perpetrator's name. Because Thisanee would not disclose the name, Move Forward could not proceed with a full investigation. Party executives from both Move Forward and Pheu Thai deny ever requesting Thisanee's silence to protect the organization's image, noting that other cases have been investigated and perpetrators punished publicly. The party states it has never closed the door on investigating Thisanee's case and is willing to proceed fully if she now consents, having already begun inviting her and relevant witnesses to provide information. The party firmly emphasizes that sexual harassment is a serious offense, rejects any culture of protecting wrongdoers, and is prepared to impose appropriate penalties while considering the full impact on the victim.