BANGKOK, THAILAND – The opposition People’s Party breathes a sigh of relief: The Supreme Court allows ten of its MPs to remain in office for now.
Court Spares MPs – But With Conditions
The Anti-Corruption Commission NACC filed the complaint. It involves 44 former MPs from the predecessor party Move Forward, led by ex-leader Pita Limjaroenrat. The ten currently active politicians stay in office because the court sees no risk of repetition.
Nevertheless, they must follow strict rules: no comments on the case, no repetition of the act. Violation leads to immediate suspension. The first hearing is set for 30 June, with evidence collection on 4 August. Defendants have 14 days to file their objection.
Lifetime Political Ban Threatens
If the MPs are found guilty, they lose their mandate and are banned from holding any political office for life. The accusation: by proposing an amendment to Section 112, they weakened the monarchy. The Constitutional Court had already ruled the step unconstitutional.
Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut announced the party would fight in court. He stressed that the MPs had only exercised their constitutional right as representatives. The case is a test for Thailand’s democracy and the fairness of its institutions.
No Leadership Change – Despite Pressure
The People’s Party sticks with its chairman. Rumors that deputy Veerayooth Kanchoochat could replace Natthaphong have been dismissed. The only change: the post of secretary-general will be filled after Sarayut Jailak resigned following an electoral setback. The vote is scheduled for 26 April at the party convention.
Deputy leader Wayo Assawarungruang expects a long process – one to two years. Despite the legal constraints, the party intends to maintain its political course. Natthaphong said the nomination of the opposition leader in parliament is not blocked.
Lawyer Expresses Relief
Party lawyer Nithi La-iaddee called it good news. The non-suspension is a positive signal. Now the team will coordinate the defense. He said they are convinced they are in the right.
The NACC announced it would review the court decision and adhere to the schedule. The agency filed the complaint and is pushing the process forward. The case heavily strains relations between the opposition and monarchy defenders.
When Does the Rule of Law Begin for All?
The ten MPs may stay for now – but the sword of a lifetime political ban hangs over them. They only exercised their mandate, introduced a legislative proposal. For that, they are to be punished existentially? This case shows how thin the line between political struggle and justice is in Thailand.