Thai PM Denies Involvement in Senator Election Collusion, Asserts Government Stability

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has strongly denied any involvement or that of the government in alleged collusion concerning the Senate election, asserting that it will not affect the government's stability. He also explained that the process to dismiss the chairman of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), Dr. Soran Boon-aikphruek, requires Senate approval before being presented to His Majesty the King, and that he cannot proceed with his own discretion. Regarding the alleged collusion in the Senate election, which the opposition has presented with additional information, Prime Minister Anutin stated, "The government's stability will become even stronger." He emphasized that they trust each other and are not involved in such illicit activities. He pointed out that the Senate is a legislative body responsible for enacting laws and oversight, and the government has no need to be involved. He also mentioned that he has not been asked for clarification by any authorities regarding the allegations and had already provided a written explanation over a year ago. Furthermore, Prime Minister Anutin addressed the matter of personally suing Mr. Yingcheep Atchanont, Director of the Internet Law Reform Dialogue Platform (iLaw), stating that he has entrusted his lawyers with the process and is exercising his rights. He dismissed the idea of setting up a special task force to handle this issue, saying, "Why would we set up a task force for such matters? It's completely unrelated." Prime Minister Anutin also commented on the events at the Pullman Bangkok Hotel, where he was allegedly seen with Senate candidates. He explained that the hotel is a place he frequents for spa treatments and meals, and he often greets many people while having coffee in the lobby. He stated that this does not lead to misunderstandings and is entirely unrelated to the Senate election collusion. He revealed that he had issued a directive last year prohibiting party members from being involved in the Senate election, reiterating that the party has no connection to the matter. When asked about the possibility of himself being sued or the Bhumjaithai Party facing dissolution due to this issue, he expressed annoyance, saying, "I'm not worried about anything because I haven't done anything. I'm just annoyed." Source: INN News