Seripisut Rejects Compromise in Libel Lawsuit Filed by Newin

Thai Liberal leader Seripisut Temiyavej has rejected an unsolicited advice from the Buriram Court to reach a compromise with de facto Bhumjaithai boss Newin Chidchob over a libel lawsuit filed against him. The former police chief, who is the sole MP for the Thai Liberal party, announced on his Facebook page that he would decline the court's mediation proposal scheduled for August 6. This decision means the defamation lawsuit, pertaining to the Khao Kradong land dispute, will proceed, with court hearings originally slated to begin on August 17. Seripisut stated his intention to formally request the provincial court to issue subpoenas for personal and material witnesses. These witnesses are expected to support his counterclaim against the libel suit, which stems from Newin's alleged illicit land grabs in Buriram. Newin is accused of seizing vast parcels of land, along with over 900 local villagers. The Supreme Administrative Court has previously ruled that all illegal occupants must return the valuable real estate to the State Railways of Thailand. Seripisut also confirmed his plan to visit the disputed land in Buriram, Newin's hometown and a major stronghold for the Bhumjaithai party. The area is also home to the Chang International Circuit and Chang Arena stadium, both owned and operated by Newin. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also serves as Interior Minister and Bhumjaithai leader, is registered as an inhabitant in the vicinity of the illegally occupied area.