Bangkok: "Reserve Senators" have stormed the Election Commission, demanding action on their long-standing case alleging collusion in the Senate elections, now entering its third year. They have expressed frustration over the 4-3 vote that dismissed crucial evidence from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), accusing the Election Commission of deliberately delaying the case pending a Constitutional Court decision. They have labeled this inaction as a form of national plunder and have announced plans to file a lawsuit, with a hearing scheduled for March 9th.
According to Thai News Agency, a group of reserve senators, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob Panyakaew, sought an update on the investigation into alleged corruption in the 2024 Senate elections. Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob expressed concern over the slow progress of the investigation, criticizing the Election Commission (EC) for not providing clear answers and relying on information from other agencies such as the DSI. He mentioned that in late 2025, the DSI and public prosecutor indicted eight suspects in a money laundering case and submitted evidence to the EC. However, despite a 3-2 vote in favor of including the evidence, objections and delays have stalled the process. Subsequent votes, including a 4-3 decision against including the DSI evidence, have raised questions about the EC's reluctance to incorporate crucial evidence.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob emphasized that the case file, submitted by the subcommittee for adjudication since September 2025, remains pending beyond the 90-day period prescribed by the EC. He accused the EC of intentionally stalling the case, potentially awaiting the Constitutional Court's decision on related allegations against former officials. He stressed the importance of holding individuals accountable and expressed his intention to meet with the EC chairman to seek an explanation. He asserted the group's right to pursue legal action if no valid reason for the delay is provided.
Furthermore, Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob urged the EC to expedite the collusion case involving senators, emphasizing the importance of proceeding based on evidence provided by the DSI. He highlighted that the EC must refer the case to the Supreme Court to revoke the eligibility of implicated individuals. He criticized the EC for delaying the case pending the Constitutional Court's ruling, arguing that sufficient evidence exists to proceed with prosecution.
When asked about the current investigation, Pol. Lt. Gen. Kamrob expressed hope, especially with the appointment of a new Election Commission chairman. He conveyed confidence in the integrity of the new chairman and some commissioners, urging them to act conscientiously. He warned that if the EC fails to address the case properly, it will face public scrutiny.
Mr. Pongsakorn Tangkittitrakul, another reserve senator, shared his frustration over the delayed justice from the EC, citing an investigation that implicated numerous senators and accomplices in election rigging. He has filed a lawsuit against seven senators charged with collusion, with a court hearing set for March 9, 2026. He criticized the EC's decision-making process and expressed his intention to sue under Section 157 if the EC does not change its stance.
Ms. Kusumalawatree Sirikomut, a prime ministerial candidate from the Thai Progressive Party, criticized the EC's inaction and questioned its independence. She accused the EC of neglecting its duties and obstructing her political activities. She has taken her grievances to the National Anti-Corruption Commission, seeking action against Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul and others for alleged corruption and abuse of power.
Ms. Kusumalawatree also raised concerns about the misuse of public funds and the lack of transparency in handling the Senate collusion case. She emphasized the importance of independent organizations and urged the public to remain vigilant against election fraud. Highlighting the significance of the upcoming election, she called for collective action to safeguard Thailand's future.