Bhumjaithai MPs Walk Out of Heated Legal Affairs Committee Meeting

Bangkok:The House Committee on Legal Affairs faced intense disputes as Bhumjaithai MPs criticized Rangsiman after he invited Sirichok to explain the issue of shares in a gambling website.

According to Thai News Agency, the debate arose during a meeting of the House of Representatives' Committee on Law, Human Rights, chaired by Mr. Rangsiman Rome. The controversy centered around Mr. Sirichok Sopha, a former Democrat Party MP, being invited to speak about shares in a gambling website linked to an MP from the Bhumjaithai Party. Bhumjaithai MPs argued that the invitation was not a committee resolution and cited previous instances of power abuse.

Mr. Supachai Jaisamut, Vice Chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee, objected to the proceedings, arguing that a resolution was required before considering the matter. He proposed a motion for a vote, emphasizing adherence to constitutional law. The discussions highlighted a divide over whether the authority lay with the committee chairman or the members.

The meeting saw further contention as Mr. Rangsiman maintained his stance, leading to a walkout by Mr. Supachai and MPs from Bhumjaithai, Pheu Thai, and the Law Committee. They later held a press conference criticizing Mr. Rangsiman's actions and announced their decision to file a complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

The walkout included MPs from the ruling coalition parties, with Mr. Supachai asserting that the chairman's actions violated regulations and ethics. Despite the disruptions, the meeting continued, underscoring ongoing tensions within the committee.