Bangkok: Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Military Affairs Committee, has called upon Major General Winthai Suvari to explain the Section 112 case concerning Mr. Paul Chambers to the Military Committee. The case has raised several questions regarding Major General Winthai’s role and responsibilities within the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) and the Army, as well as the potential implications on international relations and Thailand’s economy.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wiroj is perplexed by Maj. Gen. Winthai’s position within ISOC, noting discrepancies in his title as reported in the media. This confusion has led Mr. Wiroj to question the clarity of Maj. Gen. Winthai’s organizational role, given that ISOC reports directly to the Prime Minister’s Office, while the Army reports to the Ministry of Defense. Mr. Wiroj has also expressed concern over the dual roles and accountability of ISOC and its spokespersons, questioning the legal basis for actions taken under the ISOC Act.
Mr. Wiroj emphasized that Section 112 is a criminal offense under the Criminal Procedure Code, and ISOC, as a state agency, must adhere to public law principles. He raised concerns about the legal authority under which the ISOC filed complaints, questioning the section of the ISOC Act that grants such power. The committee plans to invite legal experts to discuss these issues during the May 8 meeting.
The discussion also touched upon the potential economic repercussions of ISOC’s actions, particularly if international relations are strained due to the Section 112 case. Mr. Wiroj questioned who would bear responsibility for any economic fallout if the case is dismissed or not prosecuted, or if Mr. Chambers is found not guilty.
Furthermore, Mr. Wiroj addressed concerns about the possible linkage between this case and the US tax issues, noting former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s acknowledgment of such connections. The lack of clarity in ISOC and Army roles has led to confusion, prompting Mr. Wiroj to seek answers from Maj. Gen. Winthai directly.
Finally, Mr. Wiroj insisted that Maj. Gen. Winthai attend the upcoming committee meeting to provide clarity on the matter. He stressed the importance of adhering to public law principles and ensuring that ISOC operates within its legal framework. The committee’s investigation aims to hold accountable those responsible for any legal missteps and to maintain transparency in military and state agency operations.