Bangkok Senate Demands Justice Minister’s Resignation Amid Vote Fraud Probe
A political crisis is brewing in Thailand as senators push for the removal of Justice Minister Pol Col Tawee Sodsong. Their action follows the Department of Special Investigation’s (DSI) announcement of a probe into alleged vote-fixing in last year’s Senate elections. This conflict potentially pits the legislative and executive branches against each other in a constitutional showdown.
The controversy began when unsuccessful Senate candidates filed complaints with the Election Commission (EC) alleging electoral irregularities. Dissatisfied with the EC’s response, they appealed to the DSI for a more thorough investigation. On February 16th, Pol Col Tawee confirmed receiving these complaints and stated that preliminary findings indicated sufficient grounds for further investigation, noting that some allegations involved offenses under the Criminal Code, falling squarely within the DSI’s jurisdiction.
This triggered a strong reaction from the Senate. Deputy Senate Speaker Gen Kriangkrai Srisak announced the Senate’s intention to pursue the Justice Minister’s removal for alleged malfeasance, though he declined to provide specifics. The Senate plans to petition the Constitutional Court via the Senate Speaker and will hold a general debate on the matter (but not a vote) during the current parliamentary session. Adding to the escalating tension, Gen Kriangkrai revealed that a legal team is gathering evidence against those accused of defaming the Senate, with potential police complaints forthcoming. A Senate committee will also summon relevant agencies to clarify their authority and elaborate on the criminal accusations against senators.
Gen Kriangkrai asserted that the allegations have damaged the Senate’s reputation and suggested a political motive, implying that senators aligned with the «blue bloc»—a reference to the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT), a ruling coalition member—are being targeted. This adds a layer of political intrigue, given that approximately 150 senators are affiliated with the BJT.
Adding to the complexity, Deputy Government Spokesman and BJT member Karom Polpornklang questioned the DSI’s jurisdiction over election laws and constitutional violations. While acknowledging the DSI’s authority to investigate complex criminal cases with significant economic impact, he argued that the Senate election falls under the EC and the Constitution’s purview. Mr. Karom raised concerns about the potential constitutional ramifications if the DSI’s investigation leads to the removal of senators, highlighting the potential conflict between an investigative agency and a legislative body.
Meanwhile, EC Chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong confirmed that the DSI has shared its findings with the EC for review. He stated that the DSI, having found sufficient grounds for the allegations, seeks to take over the case. The EC will convene to discuss this request. Sources indicate the allegations involve not only offenses under the Criminal Code but also potential violations of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, significantly escalating the situation.
Last year’s Senate election was a complex, month-long process involving intra- and inter-professional group voting at various levels, culminating in the selection of the current 200-member Senate. Allegations of collusion and manipulation cast doubt on the process’s legitimacy and threaten further instability in the Thai political landscape. The upcoming DSI meeting on Tuesday is pivotal, potentially determining the course of this high-stakes political and legal battle. The outcome could significantly impact the balance of power and the integrity of Thailand’s democratic institutions.
