13-7-2023 (BANGKOK) The Election Commission (EC) has refuted allegations of hastiness in the procedures related to the media shareholding case involving Move Forward Party Leader, Pita Limjaroenrat.
Addressing the claims, the EC cited Article 82 of the charter, which grants them the authority to request the Constitutional Court to rule on the eligibility of a political office holder without prior notification or the opportunity for the accused to provide a statement.
The EC clarified that their investigation does not pertain to electoral fraud, which would require a statement from Pita. Instead, it is a fact-finding inquiry aimed at gathering information. Hence, there is no requirement for Pita to submit a statement.
Emphasizing that they have ample grounds to believe that Pita may be ineligible for office, the EC affirmed that he will have the opportunity to defend himself in court.
The EC further underscored that their role is limited to collecting evidence and initiating legal proceedings, while the responsibility to determine Pita’s eligibility ultimately lies with the court.
Regarding the allegation of rushing through the procedures, the EC stated that they conducted a thorough investigation before deciding to seek court intervention, refuting any claims of haste in their actions.
