Phumtham Orders Legal Action Against Palang Pracharath Party Spokesperson Over Allegations.

Bangkok: Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, has instructed the legal department to take action against the spokesperson of the Palang Pracharath Party, following accusations involving the Pheu Thai Party and the Icon Group. Phumtham emphasized that these allegations lack truth and include slanderous elements. He challenged the accusers to disclose names and present evidence to the investigation committee, urging them not to speculate or divert attention from their issues. According to Thai News Agency, Phumtham, a core leader of the Pheu Thai Party, addressed the situation wherein the party's legal team is preparing to take legal action against Pol. Lt. Gen. Piya Tawichai, spokesperson for the Palang Pracharath Party. Piya had accused Pheu Thai Party members of involvement in the Ikon Group case. Phumtham remarked that the legal team is tasked with examining the issue as the accusations are not grounded in truth. He indicated that if damage results from these claims, a lawsu it may be necessary to inform the public. He highlighted the prevalence of baseless issues being raised and reiterated the need for the legal team to scrutinize the details. Phumtham pointed out that accusations against the party, such as treason and other baseless claims, need to be substantiated with evidence. He noted that the initials mentioned do not directly relate to the Pheu Thai Party. For instance, Ms. Manop Jareonsri, Deputy Minister of Transport, has clarified her actions in her duties. Another implicated individual had resigned from the party long ago, making any link to the Pheu Thai Party unfounded. Phumtham advised against politicizing these matters and suggested that such actions might be attempts to deflect from other issues. When questioned about any observations regarding the Palang Pracharath Party's motivations, especially following their exclusion from the government, Phumtham refrained from attributing the attacks directly to them. He suggested that these actions might stem from exag gerated imaginations and stressed accountability for anyone involved. Phumtham was also asked about the necessity of internal discussions with implicated party members. He responded that he was unaware of the specific allegations, dismissing them as baseless talk and emphasizing the need to focus on substantial work rather than rumors. Regarding speculations about the Sam Mitr group and politicians with initials S., Phumtham maintained that he had no knowledge and suggested that those involved should clarify their positions. He reaffirmed the Pheu Thai Party's non-involvement and commitment to their responsibilities. When queried about the potential impact on the party's popularity, Phumtham questioned how it could affect the party when the details and individuals involved remain unknown.