Bangkok: A substitute senator has petitioned the Election Commission to make a thorough and independent ruling on the senatorial election fraud case. Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob Panyakaew, a reserve senator, along with a group of reserve senators, arrived at the Election Commission office to submit a letter to all seven members of the Election Commission. They requested a thorough consideration of the senatorial election fraud case and raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, urging the Election Commission to perform its duties with integrity and fairness.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob expressed his intent to urge the Election Commission to make a ruling on the Senate election fraud case. He requested that each commissioner clearly state their reasoning for their decision, enabling future review. He emphasized the need for commissioners to carefully read the complaints submitted and use their judgment based on the evidence presented in the case file.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob also requested a press conference from the Election Commission to outline their opinion and decision on each issue, aiming to provide clarity and quell rumors. He suggested that while details can be revealed in the final ruling, a clear decision is necessary to avoid further public doubts.
Addressing issues of witness testimony, Pol. Gen. Kamrob mentioned concerns regarding witness intimidation and changes in testimony. He pointed out that documents provided to the media show that the witness in question had testified multiple times before the 26th investigative committee, accompanied by a lawyer. The presence of the 26th investigative team and prosecutors during the investigation led to the testimony of witness number 16 being recognized in the consideration process.
The 26th Investigation Committee submitted the matter on July 17, 2025, which was then reviewed by the Election Commission Secretariat until early September. No further movements occurred from the witness until the Anutin government took power and the 36th Investigation Committee was established, prompting the witness to testify again in October.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob noted irregularities surrounding the retraction of testimony during this period, urging the Election Commission to conduct a thorough investigation. He confirmed the authenticity of the documents submitted, stating they were genuine notes written in various hotels, not fabricated. He included these notes in case file number 16.
He further requested the Election Commission to reassess its evaluation of evidence, particularly in cases involving retracted testimonies. If subsequent testimony lacks detail or sufficient justification to refute the original, it requires careful consideration. Additional investigations could be conducted if the case reaches the Supreme Court.
Regarding allegations involving the Bhumjaithai Party's executive committee members, Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob stated that he cannot influence the Election Commission's decision. He noted that some commissioners give weight to a witness who retracted their testimony, potentially providing information about individuals mentioned in the allegations. Should the EC dismiss the complaint, the Supreme Court can investigate further.
Pol. Gen. Kamrob highlighted concerns over the 16th witness's claim of intimidation, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation. He stated that relying solely on a single witness's testimony requires a complete examination of the facts and evidence. If intimidation is alleged, evidence or criminal proceedings against those responsible should be pursued.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob stressed the importance of impartiality and thoroughness from all seven Election Commission members in considering the case. He called for transparency in disclosing the reasons for their decisions to allow public scrutiny and alleviate arising doubts.
Source: Thai News Agency