Bangkok: Wat Tingsmith has called for the Election Commission to refer a significant collusion case involving at least 120 senators to court, emphasizing that the top six individuals in each group are suspected of collusion. He highlighted the flawed origins of the senators and the law that permits such collusion, which has led to the disqualification of former prime ministers and judges.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Was Tingsmith, an independent scholar and former senior judge of the Supreme Court, addressed these concerns during an academic seminar titled "Crisis of Trust in Independent Organizations: Origins and Solutions." He criticized the 2017 Constitution's method of selecting independent organizations, which relies heavily on Senate approval. Reports indicate that the Election Commission is set to deliberate on the senator collusion issue, with four out of seven commission members having been approved by the Senate. Tingsmith asserted that failure to refer the case to court would lead to significant problems, especially given the Constitution's provision allowing "reasonable grounds for suspicion" as a basis for court referral.
Mr. Was further elaborated on the necessity to reform the process of selecting independent organizations. He suggested that candidates should affirm their qualifications live on air, drawing parallels with the selection of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission chairman. He criticized the current system as aberrant and unacceptable, pointing out that it even disqualified former prime ministers and judges from participating in Senate selections. He argued that the public perceives the existing system as unsustainable and in need of comprehensive reform.
Mr. Wichai Mahakun, a former member of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), also spoke at the seminar, highlighting the long-standing crisis of trust in independent organizations rooted in Thai cultural evolution. He attributed various societal issues to the apathy and lack of awareness among the Thai people. Wichai stressed the importance of public empowerment and access to information, as mandated by the 2017 Constitution, though he noted the lack of implementation due to political obstruction.
Wichai also shared insights into the NACC's investigation into corruption within local government exams, revealing his refusal to consult on the case due to concerns about the process's integrity. He expressed skepticism about the NACC's ability to effectively address corruption without constitutional reform, particularly in the selection process for independent commissioners. He emphasized the need for laws that protect public information and empower citizens, as he trusts no one but the people.
In the seminar's concluding session, Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, urged collective action in scrutinizing political power and improving legal frameworks. He cautioned against potential collusion within the Constitutional Drafting Committee, emphasizing the need for vigilance and effective collaboration moving forward.