Bangkok: Senator Angkana Neelapaijit has called upon her fellow senators to postpone the selection of independent organizations slated for May 30. She plans to address the issue during the upcoming Senate meeting, contingent on the openness of Chairman Mongkol. Angkana underscored the potential repercussions if the senators involved in the selection process are later found guilty of collusion, questioning the integrity and ethics of proceeding under such circumstances.
According to Thai News Agency, Angkana, who chairs the Senate Committee on Political Development, Public Participation, Human Rights, Rights, Liberties, and Consumer Protection, expressed her concerns in an interview. She highlighted the exclusion of her committee from the independent organization selection process, which she finds troubling given the allegations of collusion. Angkana reiterated the principle of presumption of innocence but emphasized the importance of ethics and conscience in light of the current accusations against some senators.
Angkana stressed that the constitution provides a mechanism for continuity in the event of a delay by allowing the presidents of the Supreme Court and the Supreme Administrative Court to appoint interim board members if necessary. She expressed confidence that ethical considerations should prevail over mere legal compliance.
The senator also commented on an audio clip alleged to involve promises of monetary exchanges among senators. While she did not personally witness such exchanges, she remarked on the inefficiency of the Election Commission (EC) in handling allegations against senators, contrasting it with the EC's prompt action against MPs.
Angkana concluded by warning against the long-term erosion of Thai political integrity if independent organizations are selected without proper scrutiny. She urged her colleagues to exercise careful discretion and uphold the dignity and responsibility expected of their roles. In a lighter moment, she humorously differentiated herself from fellow Senator Alongkot Woraki, known for his mobility, by noting her own preference for staying seated.