Bangkok:Political observer Thepthai Senpong has highlighted five tactics allegedly employed by the "blue regime" to obstruct governmental scrutiny. Thepthai shared his insights through a Facebook post, detailing how these tactics are designed to challenge the opposition and public efforts to hold the government accountable.

According to Thai News Agency, Thepthai's observations come amidst ongoing scrutiny of the government's performance both within and outside the House of Representatives. Inside the House, opposition parties have initiated a no-confidence motion against 18 ministers, while various parliamentary committees are also examining government actions. Externally, public movements, such as the 1,000-car protest led by Kamnan Mano Kreukaew, have been organized to pressure the government on economic hardships and high fuel prices.

Thepthai pointed out that the government has used several methods to stifle scrutiny. One such method includes limiting the duration of the no-confidence debate proposed by the opposition. Initially set for five days, the government reduced it to three before settling on four days, delaying the debate to a period coinciding with New Year holidays and significant royal events, potentially diminishing public interest.

Another tactic involves lawsuits aimed at silencing criticism of the government following revelations of collusion involving senators and key political figures. Defamation suits have been filed against those exposing government actions, with members of the Bhumjaithai Party expressing readiness to take legal action against their accusers.

Additionally, Thepthai criticized guidelines issued by the Speaker of the House that restrict committee chairpersons from summoning individuals without a majority resolution, potentially stifling opposition efforts to hold the government accountable.

The use of Pegasus spyware to access the phones of opposition leaders is another concern. Though the responsible parties remain unidentified, suspicions arise due to the government's exclusive access to such technology, suggesting possible intimidation efforts.

Lastly, Thepthai highlighted a move by the Election Commission, influenced by the Senate, to involve the Constitutional Court in interpreting the Supreme Court's authority over the Senate elections. This is perceived as an attempt to bypass the Supreme Court's independence, using the Constitutional Court to sidestep potential political interference.

These strategies, Thepthai argues, reflect typical blue-regime politics aimed at deterring scrutiny and maintaining control over political processes.