20-12-2023 (BANGKOK) The Constitutional Court has announced that it will issue its ruling on January 24 in the media shareholding case involving former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat. The court made this announcement on Wednesday following Mr. Pita’s defense statement. Currently serving as the advisory chairman of the main opposition party, Mr. Pita could potentially lose his status as a Member of Parliament if the court finds that he ran for office while being aware of his shares in the now-defunct broadcaster iTV.
The case was brought before the charter court by the Election Commission (EC), despite a recommendation from an EC subcommittee to drop the charge against Mr. Pita for violating Section 151 of the Election Act.
During the court proceedings, Mr. Pita was one of three individuals who provided evidence. The court also heard statements from EC secretary-general Sawang Boonmee and Kim Siritaweechai, the executive director of iTV.
After carefully reviewing the testimony of the three witnesses, the court announced that it will deliver its verdict on January 24 at 2pm.
Speaking to reporters outside the court, Mr. Pita expressed his satisfaction with the day’s events and his confidence in the justice system. He arrived at the court carrying two bags filled with documents and expressed his lack of concern. He stated that he had been awaiting this day for a long time and welcomed the opportunity to present the facts of the case.
Addressing the media, Mr. Pita emphasized that iTV should not be considered a media firm as it has not been operational since 2007. He clarified that the company generates revenue from interest on its investments. He expressed confidence that iTV does not fall under the category of a media stock, citing previous rulings in similar cases.
Mr. Pita explained that the 42,000 shares in iTV were originally owned by his late father, and upon his father’s passing, he became the executor of the estate. He further stated that the shares have since been transferred to other relatives.
Supporters of Mr. Pita gathered outside the court to offer encouragement. Some embraced him before he entered the courtroom, while others displayed placards expressing their support.
On July 19, the Constitutional Court suspended Mr. Pita from his duties as an elected member of the House of Representatives.
Mr. Pita has raised concerns about the motives behind the EC’s investigation into his shareholding in iTV. He pointed out that both iTV and its major shareholder, telecom firm Intouch Holdings, have provided financial documents indicating that the defunct media company ceased broadcasting and has no income from media operations.
He also highlighted that in 2020, around 60 MPs faced similar media shareholding complaints but were not suspended from their duties pending rulings.
