BANGKOK — The Special Cases Committee’s decision to authorize a Department of Special Investigation (DSI) probe into alleged money laundering in the 2024 Senate elections has created political tensions across multiple fronts, with senators feeling targeted, opposition members demanding more serious charges, and skeptics questioning whether the investigation will reach its conclusion.
Police Colonel Tawee Sodsong, the Justice Minister who has become the primary target of criticism from the “Blue Network” senators, clarified on March 7 that criminal association charges are already understood as predicate offenses for money laundering investigations. According to Tawee, witness testimony suggests approximately 300-500 million baht ($9-15 million) changed hands during the Senate selection process.
“The DSI has gathered approximately 7,000 witnesses, including 3,000 who were present at the national Senate election in Muang Thong Thani,” Tawee revealed. “I’ve instructed investigators to complete evidence collection within three months, as preliminary findings indicate about 20 people were involved in financial transactions.”
Some senators have threatened retaliatory measures, including ethics violation complaints against the Justice Minister and Senate debates, but Tawee remains unfazed: “This matter will now be handled by investigators, prosecutors, and experts based solely on evidence, not emotions or political considerations.”
The controversy has intensified following reported meetings between Prime Minister Paetongtarn, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul, and Newin Chidchob, an influential Bhumjaithai Party figure with connections to the “Blue Network” senators on Sunday.
Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit, a human rights advocate, expressed concern about the investigation becoming a political bargaining chip rather than a genuine accountability process. “If criminal associations are found but used as political leverage, society gains nothing,” she warned.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who chaired the Special Cases Committee, emphasized that the investigation aims to protect democratic integrity: “This isn’t about political games but ensuring that our legislative bodies operate with transparency and legitimacy. The DSI’s investigation is a necessary step to maintain public trust in our institutions.”
The investigation’s outcome could significantly reshape power dynamics in Thailand’s legislature, particularly regarding the Senate’s constitutional role in selecting prime ministers and approving major legislation.
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