The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has embarked on a comprehensive investigation into 44 former MPs of the recently dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP). These politicians are under scrutiny for signing an agreement to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code, more widely recognized as the lese majeste law. The inquiry, which is predicted to extend over the next six months, marks a significant step in addressing potential misconduct.
According to the NACC’s secretary-general, Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, preliminary fact-finding has established legitimate grounds for the allegations against the former MFP MPs. They were previously declared guilty by the Constitutional Court on January 31, accused of attempting to undermine the constitutional monarchy.
Mr. Niwatchai elaborated on the forthcoming procedures, which involve the gathering of corroborative evidence and issuing notifications to the accused, allowing them the opportunity to counter the accusations. Following this phase, the NACC will compile a comprehensive summary of the findings and determine whether the MPs’ actions were ethically inappropriate.
Despite the structured timeline, Mr. Niwatchai emphasized the unpredictability of the investigation’s duration, noting that not all MPs are prepared to provide the required information promptly. The commission also intends to consult additional individuals, including parliamentary representatives who were either involved in or knowledgeable about the proposed amendments, to discern their intentions.
He also mentioned that the law permits an extension of the timeframe for accused individuals to present their arguments, citing reasons such as illness or other unavoidable circumstances. Therefore, the anticipated six-month period may fluctuate depending on these variables.
While it may not be imperative for all 44 MPs to appear in person, the NACC will nonetheless seek explanations from each one of them. Additionally, Mr. Niwatchai clarified that despite circulating speculations, the NACC is obligated to thoroughly examine the evidence before potentially forwarding the case to the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Persons Holding Political Positions. The Conmission’s role is to ensure a meticulous and fair assessment before any court submission.
Reiterating the commission’s ethical principles, Mr. Niwatchai stressed the NACC’s commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty and security of the governance system, with the monarchy at its head. Should the Supreme Court find these MPs, including notable figures such as Pita Limjaroenrat and People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawat, guilty, they will face mandatory and permanent expulsion from the political arena. This decision underscores the gravity of upholding ethical conduct and the rule of law within the political sphere.
This investigation reeks of political suppression. The lese majeste law itself is outdated and used to stifle dissent.
Disagree. The monarchy is a cornerstone of our culture and should be protected. These MPs knew what they were risking.
Respecting the monarchy doesn’t mean we should compromise on our right to free speech. That law doesn’t belong in a modern society.
What free speech? It’s treason to undermine the royalty. Stop defending criminals!
Samantha, do you think it’s worth risking civil unrest just to amend a law?
Regardless of their intentions, meddling with such sensitive laws is bound to attract intense scrutiny. This is the price of reform.
The NACC is doing the right thing. Political figures should be held accountable for their actions, especially when it comes to the monarchy.
Accountability is one thing, but witch hunts are another. This has political motivations written all over it.
Political motives or not, laws are laws. Breaking them has to have consequences.
Well, some laws need to be broken for society to progress. The world isn’t static.
Why focus on these MPs when there are bigger corruption issues in the country?
Because they dared to challenge the established order. That’s always a bigger crime in their eyes.
Bigger fish to fry or not, rule of law means addressing all forms of misconduct.
Six months? This will go on forever, as it always does. Typical bureaucracy.
Ravi, they need to be thorough. Can’t rush justice.
Thorough? More like dragging their feet to keep the media distracted.
Both of you are right. They need time to ensure fairness, but they can also exploit the delay.
NACC is simply doing its job. If you’re clean, you shouldn’t worry about investigations.
Naive much? Even clean people can get trapped in the crosshairs of political agendas.
Constitutional monarchy is a relic. Time to revisit these laws and align with global democratic standards.
So quick to judge the MPs. Wait for the investigation to conclude before making any assumptions.
True, but based on preliminary findings, it doesn’t look good for them.
I have faith in the NACC to uphold ethics and justice.
Blind faith in any institution is dangerous. They have their own biases and interests.
The lese majeste law should be preserved. It’s essential to maintain our national identity.
If these MPs are found guilty, will any systemic changes be proposed? Or will this cycle continue?
I doubt it. It’s in the interest of those in power to keep the status quo.
Exactly. So punishing them won’t solve the underlying issues.
Interesting how only the MFP MPs are being targeted while other parties roam free.
The monarchy and the lese majeste law are sacred. Any attempt to change them should be met with strong opposition.
Sacred isn’t an excuse for unexamined tradition. Society evolves and laws should reflect that.
Some traditions are foundational. Mess with them, and everything else crumbles.
Politicians should focus on real issues like poverty and education, not polarizing topics like this.
Yet these ‘polarizing’ topics often stir public debate and hold significant importance.
Can’t help but feel some of these MPs are being scapegoated to send a message.