Thai Deputy PM Denies Link to Parliament Vote-Buying Scandal
Deputy PM Somkid Jatusripitak denied involvement in a parliamentary vote-buying scandal on July 22, saying he will pursue legal action if he can prove harm from the allegations. He acknowledged that while political criticism is routine, any
Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak gave an interview on July 22, 2025 at Government House regarding the vote-buying case investigation, which identified nine individuals connected to the scandal, including himself. He stated that when his name was linked to parliamentary vote-buying allegations—which he understands to be unlawful—he will pursue legal processes to defend his rights and seek damages if he has been harmed. When asked whether publicly naming him constituted a political attack, Somkid said he did not wish to characterize it that way, but acknowledged that those who disclosed the names should exercise clarity when making allegations without confirmed facts. He noted that political criticism of public figures is routine, but when actual harm results, legal recourse is necessary to vindicate legitimate rights. He stated that Bhumjaithai Party's legal team is already pursuing the matter. When asked whether he would file a personal complaint or leave it to the party's legal team, Somkid explained that since multiple government ministers were named, he needs to consult with them, as most of those implicated hold ministerial positions. He emphasized that as a politician and public figure, he accepts being subject to criticism, but any legal action must first establish clear evidence of how the allegations harmed him, including the method and capacity in which they were made, and whether the legal elements of a lawsuit are present.
