Bangkok:Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong, a Member of Parliament and leader of the Prachachart Party, has suggested the need for a poll to evaluate the benefits of reducing the oversight powers of the 35 parliamentary committees. His proposal comes in light of recent restrictions issued by the Speaker of the House, which require assembly resolutions to set agendas or summon individuals for clarification.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Tawee emphasized that the committees are fundamentally aligned with the Constitution, tasked with probing corruption and handling complaints. He highlighted the committees' successful investigations, such as uncovering a major local government exam cheating scandal and investigating the assassination attempt on Mr. Kamolsak Leewamae, revealing involvement by the Internal Security Operations Command and the use of government-issued firearms.

Pol. Col. Tawee questioned the rationale behind limiting the committees' powers and asked what benefits such restrictions bring to the public. He argued that the public does not suffer hardship from investigations, while those engaged in wrongdoing may face consequences. He also noted that civil servants might welcome the oversight, as it provides leverage to deter corruption.

He proposed conducting a poll to determine public opinion on whether the committees should continue their work and to assess satisfaction with their performance. Pol. Col. Tawee pointed out that the committees' operations are governed by Article 129 of the Constitution, which may conflict with the Speaker's orders if enforced, potentially leading to a Constitutional Court petition.