Bangkok: "Saeng" has appointed the Deputy Secretary-General of the Election Commission to lead the Investigative Division overseeing a case of alleged collusion among Senate members during the opinion-making stage. The investigation is set to be conducted within a 30-day timeframe, which may be extended if necessary, but efforts will be made to complete it as swiftly as possible. The Election Commission retains full authority to continue its duties even after its members' terms have expired.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sawaeng Boonmee, Secretary-General of the Election Commission, discussed the ongoing work of the 26th Investigation and Inquiry Committee regarding the Senate election collusion case. He mentioned that the EC Secretary-General is in the process of finalizing his opinion and has tasked the Deputy Secretary-General for Investigation with overseeing the case. Despite the extensive number of documents involved, which require time for thorough examination and fact-gathering, the aim is to expedite the proceedings.
Addressing concerns about the potential for the investigation to extend beyond eight months, Mr. Sa-wang suggested that such claims were speculative and assured that every level of the process would advance as promptly as possible.
Regarding the retirement of certain Election Commission members and the subsequent need to elect new members, Mr. Sa-nguan clarified that this factor would not impede the case's progress. The ongoing proceedings will adhere to the Election Commission's regulations, and the commission will maintain its authority and responsibilities even after the expiration of its members' terms.
On the question of forming a new adjudicatory committee from the existing group of 35, Mr. Sa-nguan described it as a positive step. He underscored the importance of fairness and mutual verification to ensure the thoroughness and precision of the case files. The decision on whether to establish a new investigative subcommittee will rest with the Election Commission.
In response to questions about potential delays in decision-making, Mr. Sa-wang highlighted that the investigation is proceeding in strict accordance with established procedures.