Sonthiya Files Complaint with Police to Investigate Piyabutr's Post on Abolishing the Privy Council as Violating Articles 108-112

On May 25, 2025, Sonthiya Sawatdee submitted a complaint to the Central Investigation Police Command accusing Dr. Piyabutr Saengkanokkul, a leading member of the Move Forward Party and independent academic, of reposting old comments online about abolishing the Privy Council. Sonthiya claimed the posts constitute a failure to recognize the authority of the monarchy.

Sonthiya stated he had previously opposed the establishment of the Move Forward Party since 2018, viewing Dr. Piyabutr as advocating for amendments to Criminal Code Article 112. He cited the case of 44 Move Forward MPs facing court scrutiny.

The complaint specifically addresses two issues: a proposal to abolish the Privy Council to save budget and a suggestion that the council's functions overlap with the cabinet. Sonthiya argued that proposing to eliminate the Privy Council—which is established by royal prerogative—violates Article 108 of the Criminal Code and potentially Article 112, as it constitutes rejection of the monarchy's authority.

Sonthiya emphasized that the Privy Council is a constitutional body functioning under royal mandate, not a political entity. He cited nine Privy Councilors' participation in disaster prevention meetings regarding the potential Super El Niño phenomenon as legitimate advisory work serving the public, not political interference. He also noted the council's role in monitoring royal projects including water management and sufficiency economy initiatives.

Sonthiya argued the proposal may violate a 2021 Constitutional Court ruling regarding actions that could damage the monarchy. He announced plans to file an additional complaint on May 28 against actress Rakchonok Sainok for Article 112 violations and will submit documents to the Appeals Court.