Bangkok:House Speaker Sophon Saram has made public an open letter directed at both the public and the media to clarify the working methods of the parliamentary committee. He emphasized the committee's adherence to the rule of law, ensuring that there is no restriction on the power to scrutinize the executive branch. Saram assured that the committee is committed to maintaining neutrality and the dignity of the legislature.

According to Thai News Agency, the open letter addressed five main issues in response to criticisms regarding the working methods of the Standing Committees, countering claims that these methods limit the power to scrutinize the executive branch or amount to authoritarianism.

Sophon clarified that the guidelines discussed are not new rules or regulations but are based on existing procedures followed by most standing committees under the Rules of Procedure of the House of Representatives, B.E. 2562 (2019). These guidelines were summarized after a meeting with the chairpersons of all 35 standing committees, reinforcing adherence to the Constitution and existing rules without establishing new discretionary guidelines.

Furthermore, Sophon explained that the power of parliamentary committees is collective, not vested in any individual. The guidelines are meant to resolve conflicts arising from the interpretation of duties and powers, separating the authority to manage meetings from the power to summon individuals or documents, which requires committee approval.

He also stressed that adherence to laws and regulations is not intended to protect the executive branch. Instead, it ensures that all committee members, regardless of political affiliation, can scrutinize the government effectively and legally. The guidelines aim to enhance scrutiny efficiency while respecting legal frameworks.

Finally, Sophon reiterated that coordination between committees on overlapping matters is crucial for efficiency and does not weaken scrutiny power. He concluded by underscoring the importance of respecting assembly decisions and the rule of law as fundamental to democracy, aiming to foster understanding and benefit society as a whole.