Bangkok: Rangsiman Rome, a party-list MP from the People's Party, expressed his disappointment with the recent parliamentary decision to grant protection to Chonphat, urging security agencies to be vigilant against potential border crossings by fugitives. He conveyed his concerns following the House of Representatives' decision to deny special investigators the authority to summon Songkhla MP, Mr. Chonnapat Naksua of the Kla Tham Party, for questioning.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Rangsiman argued that this decision has likely eroded public confidence in the parliament. He noted that although Mr. Chonnapat is not currently guilty, the charges against him may have merit. He criticized the application of past precedents, stating that it essentially shields individuals accused of transnational crimes and other serious offenses. He urged the parliament to exercise discretion based on the severity and merit of charges, differing from past cases when necessary. He questioned the rightness of a citizen advocating for democracy under varying circumstances and argued for different parliamentary discretion in such cases. Despite the uncertainty of Mr. Chonnapat's intentions to flee, Rangsiman emphasized the need for vigilance by the Department of Special Investigation, the government, and the Royal Thai Police, especially since Mr. Chonnapat represents a region near the border.

Mr. Rangsiman further warned that if a similar escape occurs in the future, it would necessitate an investigation into potential negligence or dereliction of duty by officials, particularly those stationed along the border. He stressed that politicians involved in illicit activities must not evade the justice system. He pointed out that if Mr. Chonnapat is not prosecuted, the House of Representatives would bear partial responsibility for the justice system's failure to address politicians tied to illicit activities.

Regarding Mr. Chonnapat's readiness to face the judicial process, Mr. Rangsiman expressed concern over the limited opportunity given to clarify matters in the parliamentary session. He mentioned inviting Mr. Chonnapat for testimony during his tenure as chairman of the National Security Committee, but noted Mr. Chonnapat's consistent absence and lack of written explanations.

Mr. Rangsiman emphasized that he could not confirm Mr. Chonnapat's future cooperation with the legal process. However, he asserted that a lack of compliance would implicate the House of Representatives, as the majority vote might lead society to perceive the House as partly responsible for obstructing the prosecution of politicians associated with illicit funds.