Parliamentary Committee to Question MP in Unauthorised Forex Investigation
A parliamentary committee focused on police affairs is preparing to summon Member of Parliament Pawoot for questioning regarding his alleged involvement in unauthorised foreign exchange trading. The committee, chaired by Watcharapong Kuwijitsuwan of the Bhumjaithai Party, announced its intention on Saturday to seek clarification from the MP.
DSI Uncovers Significant Financial Transactions
This development follows an announcement by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) on Friday. Investigators revealed the discovery of financial transactions amounting to 28 million baht, reportedly linked to brokers engaged in illicit foreign exchange activities. The DSI indicated it is in the process of issuing a formal summons to Mr. Pawoot as part of its ongoing inquiry.
Committee to Determine Summons Timeline and Scope
Mr. Watcharapong stated that the parliamentary committee would convene next week to decide on the specific date for Mr. Pawoot’s appearance. The committee will also consider whether the DSI and other relevant state agencies should be invited to provide information to aid their investigation.
Political Opposition Raises Concerns Over Investigation’s Conduct
The case has rapidly become a focal point of political contention. The opposition Pheu Thai Party (PP) has accused the DSI of unfairly targeting one of its MPs. Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut questioned the DSI’s decision to name Mr. Pawoot during their briefing, noting that he had not yet been formally charged or summoned at that time.
Timing and Transparency Under Scrutiny
Mr. Natthaphong described the situation as unusual, highlighting that suspects had not been identified while an individual not yet called for questioning was singled out. He also expressed concerns about the timing of the DSI’s announcement, pointing out its proximity to parliamentary committees scrutinising the TH-AI Passport project, an initiative in which Mr. Pawoot has played a significant role. The opposition leader suggested that the disclosure could be interpreted as an attempt to discredit Mr. Pawoot and divert attention from the parliamentary committee’s work.
MP’s Prior Explanation and Cooperation Pledge
According to Mr. Natthaphong, the DSI briefing offered little new information. He reiterated that Mr. Pawoot had previously explained that the transactions in question were connected to legitimate gold trading activities and his payment gateway business.
Legal Action and Anti-Corruption Body Involvement
The Pheu Thai Party is currently consulting its legal team regarding potential actions, should evidence emerge of improper conduct by state officials. Furthermore, Mr. Natthaphong has urged the National Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate the issues raised concerning the TH-AI Passport project.
Despite the allegations, Mr. Natthaphong affirmed that Mr. Pawoot is prepared to cooperate fully with investigators and has no intention of seeking to use parliamentary immunity.
