Bangkok: Parit Wacharasindhu, a Member of Parliament from the People's Party, has proposed cutting the entire investigation budget of the Election Commission (EC) after uncovering alleged collusion in the Senate election. The proposal has sparked significant debate within the House of Representatives, with Bhumjaithai MPs protesting the move, arguing that it is irrelevant and not based on factual evidence.
According to Thai News Agency, the House of Representatives, chaired by Speaker Sophon Saram, was considering Section 32 of the 2027 Budget Act, which pertains to independent agencies and the Attorney General's office. Parit expressed his concerns about the 2.7 billion baht budget requested by the Election Commission, which is intended to enhance the credibility and integrity of the electoral process. He questioned whether the proposed budget would be used to protect democracy or, conversely, support crimes against it.
Parit cited the Senate election fraud as a significant issue, asserting that the blatant fraudulent process occurred right before the eyes of the Election Commission. He detailed how the EC allegedly facilitated this plan by issuing regulations that made it easier for candidates to engage in vote-buying schemes. Moreover, Parit raised concerns about the EC's handling of irregularities post-election and questioned whether the legislative body should approve a budget related to investigating corruption.
Throughout the debate, Bhumjaithai Party members, including Boonjong and Mr. Natchanon Srikornguek, argued against Parit's accusations, emphasizing that everything was within constitutional boundaries and urging patience until the Election Commission announces the charges on September 14. Mr. Sanong Thepaksornnarong, another MP from the Bhumjaithai Party, also protested, arguing that Parit's claims were merely accusations without evidence, and urged for clarification and fairness.
Parit continued his argument, detailing the investigation into the Senate election fraud, which involved several stages and committees. He criticized the work of the 36th Subcommittee on Adjudication, arguing that its inefficiency and alignment with political agendas rendered its budget allocation unjustifiable. Parit concluded by questioning the EC's commitment to effective investigations, especially when faced with subcommittee rulings that dismiss complaints or evidence without justification.
In response to Parit's remarks, Mr. Supachai Jaisamut from the Bhumjaithai Party protested, alleging that Parit's statements were in violation of the bill's content. The discussion became heated, with Supachai accusing Parit of lying, prompting Parit to defend his position and play a video clip to support his claims. Despite the contentious debate, the meeting proceeded with the Minister of Commerce addressing the budget considerations.
The proposed budget cut and allegations of collusion have highlighted the ongoing tensions within Thailand's political landscape, raising questions about the integrity of electoral processes and the role of independent agencies in safeguarding democracy.