Bangkok: "Supachai" has countered allegations made by "Jermsaks," accusing him of political bias concerning the issue of pre-selecting the Prime Minister. Bhumjaithai Party is expressing strong disapproval as Supachai threatens legal action against Jermsaksri for defamation and political bias. The accusations revolve around the claims of a predetermined government formation favoring Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul as Prime Minister. Supachai warns that sharing such content could implicate individuals in a crime under the Election Act.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, a Bhumjaithai Party list candidate, responded to an online interview by independent academic Mr. Jermsaks Pinthong. In the interview, Jermsaks alleged that the formation of a government was orchestrated to install Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul as Prime Minister, asserting that the nation's issues remain unresolved. Supachai condemned Jermsaks's statements as defamatory and damaging to both Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul and the Bhumjaithai Party, potentially influencing the upcoming parliamentary elections. He criticized Jermsaks's comments for lacking independent academic principles and for being politically biased.
Supachai further addressed accusations regarding the election being held under a patronage system, complicating the country's potential for change. He emphasized that elections are a democratic process, and decisions are made by eligible voters. The claim of pre-determining government formation, he argued, requires public clarification of accountability, asserting that no individual or group can decide election outcomes on behalf of the populace.
Responding to criticism over the Prime Minister's debate participation, Supachai clarified that Anutin Charnvirakul, in his role as Prime Minister, chose not to participate in debates due to the sensitive nature of confidential and national security information. Engaging in debates with other party leaders lacking this information could lead to inappropriate disclosures, potentially affecting national administration. Supachai stated this decision was not a reflection of insincerity towards the public.
Supachai also warned that those disseminating or sharing the controversial interview clip could face legal action under the Constitutional Act on the Election of Members of Parliament, with Bhumjaithai Party prepared to prosecute. He urged media outlets to assess the appropriateness of facilitating potentially defamatory expressions against political parties or candidates. Supachai reiterated that Bhumjaithai Party would not tolerate using media as a tool for political defamation or support of any hidden agenda.