House Speaker Sophon under fire over Saksayam case

Thailand's opposition is threatening legal action against House Speaker Sophon Zarum, accusing him of failing to fulfill his duty by not forwarding a critical petition to the Supreme Court. The petition targets the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) over its handling of a case involving former transport minister Saksayam Chidchob.

Members of the opposition People's Party (PP) outlined the petition's core allegations, which claim the NACC acted improperly when it dropped an investigation into whether Mr. Saksayam concealed his ownership of Buri Charoen Nakhon Co. This issue first surfaced during a no-confidence debate in 2022 and was later addressed by the Constitutional Court.

Evidence suggests Mr. Saksayam founded the company and initially held an 80% stake, with the company registered at his home address. Concerns were raised when these shares were transferred to an associate shortly before the 2019 election, leading to questions about whether the transaction was legitimate or a nominee arrangement. The Constitutional Court ultimately ruled that this constituted share concealment.

The opposition argues that the NACC's decision to dismiss related allegations, including those concerning asset declarations and a significant loan, has caused public concern. The petition against the NACC details four main accusations: insufficient investigation, improper use of discretion, lack of transparency in providing documents and disclosing decisions, and failure to investigate other potential offenses. The opposition urges the House Speaker to act before the parliamentary session concludes in mid-July, stating that legal action under Section 157 of the criminal code is possible if he refuses to forward the petition.

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If the parliament president refuses to send the petition and we believe such action constitutes wrongful conduct, we can pursue legal action under Section 157.