Theng Nattapong confirmed that in the cases involving two Prachachon Party MPs, Phawut and Somchat, the party applies the same standards. If wrongdoing is found, the individuals must enter the justice process without using parliamentary privileges.
At 09:30 on 23 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, party-list MP and leader of the Prachachon Party, gave an interview at the parliament regarding Police Lieutenant General Ruthaphon Naowarat, Minister of Justice, stating that charges will be filed in the case of Phawut Pongwitthayaphanu, party-list MP of the Prachachon Party. He said he is personally involved in overseeing this matter and confirmed that further actions will take place soon, but for now he would not provide more details. He reaffirmed the principle that the party has always applied consistent standards in overseeing its members, without changing past approaches.
When asked if the party's mechanisms had found any suspicious or potentially wrongful actions, Nattapong said details cannot be disclosed yet as they are carefully weighing the evidence. He emphasized maintaining the existing high standards, meaning if clear evidence shows party members are involved in wrongdoing—even before court proceedings—they should not use any privileges and must enter the process as ordinary citizens.
Nattapong further explained they are also considering whether the case is politically motivated, as public debate suggests. The party closely monitors the process involving Phawut, and if evidence shows his involvement and he is willing and sincere to face justice, the party will support him entering the justice process without shielding any internal members.
When asked about the statement from Police Lieutenant General Ruthaphon that charges will be filed this week and whether parliamentary privileges would be used, Nattapong said that after discussions with Phawut, he has no intention to use parliamentary privileges. If a summons is received and legal proceedings move forward, he is ready to comply and face the process personally.
, Regarding Somchat Techathaworncharoen, Phuket MP from the Prachachon Party, who has not yet responded to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) in a nominee case, Nattapong said Somchat has previously shown sincerity to proceed with justice. Concerning delays and postponements, Nattapong will follow up and support advancing the justice process without using parliamentary privileges for protection.
Nattapong also added that reports indicate Somchat resigned from 28 companies where his name was listed, with changes made accordingly. The party's internal process is proceeding alongside this, and they are weighing both sides of the Somchat case, applying the same principles as in Phawut's case.
When asked if there is a deadline given the long investigation period, Nattapong replied they are trying to act as quickly as possible. Should clear updates arise, party representatives will publicly clarify.