Lampang: Kla Tham MP has urged the Speaker of the House of Representatives to establish an ethics committee to investigate an MP accused of making disparaging remarks about village headmen and sub-district chiefs. The comments allegedly linked these community leaders to drug trafficking, prompting concerns among the residents of Lampang.
According to Thai News Agency, during a House of Representatives meeting chaired by Speaker Sophon Saram, members discussed various local grievances. Dachai Ekpathapi, an MP for Lampang from the Kla Tham Party, highlighted a previous parliamentary debate that implicated village headmen and sub-district chiefs in drug-related activities. He noted that the institution of village headmen and sub-district chiefs has been a part of the Ministry of Interior for over 133 years, serving as vital components in every province. These leaders hold significant roles in alleviating suffering and promoting the well-being of the people. However, remarks made on April 30th by a Member of Parliament suggested that all village headmen and sub-district chiefs are involved in drug use and trafficking, causing widespread distress.
Mr. Dachai shared that during his visit to Lampang province, community leaders expressed their concerns, questioning why the MP made such accusations. Following this, the Speaker of the House demanded the withdrawal of the inappropriate remarks from the records, which Mr. Dachai complied with. He further criticized the MP for lacking intellectual maturity and noted that the reputation of community leaders nationwide had been tarnished. Mr. Dachai argued that the MP's apology in a video was insufficient.
He concluded by requesting the Speaker to consider appointing a committee to investigate whether the MP violated ethical standards, specifically referencing Section 2, Clauses 13 and 15.