Bangkok: “Rakchanok” declared that waiting for parliamentary inquiries would be a waste of her life, following her being sued by “Suchart” after exposing social security issues. She expressed confusion over being charged despite advocating for insured persons’ benefits. “Sahasawat” attested to the adequacy of evidence, emphasizing the petitioner’s right to assess damages and suggesting the matter is open for discussion.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Rakchanok Srinok, a Bangkok MP from the Prachachon Party, and Mr. Sahasawat Khumkhong, a Chonburi MP from the same party, discussed the defamation lawsuit filed by Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Minister of Commerce. The suit followed their revelations about the Skyy9 building.
Ms. Rakchanok highlighted the one-month anniversary of the social security budget hacking. She expressed disbelief that social security issues escalated to this point, with opaque budgeting and a lack of transparency when information was requested. Both MPs were charged, which Ms. Rakchanok considered a success in advocating for insured persons’ benefits. She affirmed their commitment to continue investigations into unresolved social security matters.
Regarding the lawsuit, both MPs remain unfazed, asserting their statements were made in the public’s interest, not personally. Ms. Rakchanok questioned the basis for the lawsuit, wondering how a minister could be unaware of such investments.
Mr. Sahasawat responded to Mr. Suchart’s claim that Rakchanok exceeded her duties as an MP by speaking publicly. He argued that fulfilling MP duties shouldn’t be limited to parliamentary discussions. He stressed the importance of public awareness and confirmed having sufficient evidence for their claims.
Ms. Rakchanok emphasized the futility of waiting solely for parliamentary discourse, arguing MPs must address issues beneficial to the public and those who elected them. She questioned Mr. Suchart’s stance by asking whose side he was on if not for the insured.
She stressed preventing similar cases, highlighting investment problems in the Skyy9 building. Society agreed it wasn’t worth the investment due to inadequate returns. She called for transparency from the Social Security Office and better management plans.
Addressing rumors about Ms. Siriwan Prasatsatru’s involvement, Ms. Rakchanok clarified she was only supportive and did not disclose the source of their information.
Regarding the 50 million baht lawsuit, Ms. Rakchanok noted it was less than Mr. Rangsiman Rome’s 100 million baht case. Mr. Sahasawat added that damage assessments are the plaintiff’s right, leaving the public and insured persons to judge.
