Bangkok: "Natthapong" has openly criticized the government for its evasive stance on the oil price issue, questioning the Prime Minister's plan to address oil hoarding tied to dubious dealings and scams involving government ministers. During a parliamentary session, "Siripong" offered an apology, emphasizing that the matter is under the purview of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and suggested that inquiries should be directed towards the Minister of Justice.
According to Thai News Agency, the House of Representatives meeting, chaired by Speaker Sophon Saram, included an oral question session where Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut of the People's Party addressed oil-related issues to Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul. In response, the government designated Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, to provide explanations.
Mr. Nattapong highlighted his efforts to communicate with government officials, including discussions with Ms. Mallika Chiraphanwanich, the First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, to address urgent questions to key government figures such as Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul and Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn. His focus was on oil prices, questioning whether Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Deputy Minister of Transport, was the right person to address these issues. He suggested a dialogue with the Speaker to ensure the questions were posed in a format that offered the Prime Minister or Mr. Pipat preliminary information for future sessions.
The Speaker clarified that assignments were made according to procedural rules, specifically Rule 155, which allows questions to be forwarded to the government if not directly asked by the questioner. Mr. Nattapong expressed his understanding of governmental constraints but insisted that parliamentary sessions should uphold the system where the executive branch addresses live questions during Thursday morning sessions.
Mr. Nattapong referenced last week's interpellation by Mr. Rangsiman Rome from the People's Party, which prompted an inspection of oil depots in Phetchaburi province. The inspection revealed significant irregularities, including interconnected pipes and faulty seals at depots managed by both the Customs and Excise Departments. He emphasized the need for transparency in the investigation of alleged oil hoarding by "Sia Tue" in Ang Thong province, connected to a network of scammers and high-ranking officials. Despite persistent demands, the government has yet to provide clear answers.
Highlighting the seriousness of the issue, Mr. Nattapong questioned Mr. Anutin about his previous actions, such as asking Mr. Worapak Thanyawong, former Deputy Minister of Finance, to resign over a scandal after just 33 days in office. He inquired if Mr. Anutin would apply the same standards to Mr. Pipat, who admitted his association with "Sia Tue's" network, linked to shady funds and transnational crime.
In his response, Mr. Siripong clarified the misunderstanding, stating he was briefed that the question related to the Land Bridge, a matter under the Ministry of Transport. He acknowledged the importance of the issues raised, indicating they might not fall directly under his ministry's domain, but he would bring them to the Prime Minister's attention. He noted ongoing investigations by the DSI and suggested that the Minister of Justice, overseeing the DSI, was better suited to respond. Concluding his statement, he apologized for any inconvenience and bowed in apology to the Parliament.