Chatichai expects the Peace Promotion Committee to meet this November, revealing nearly 30 petitions. He insists there is no pressure and no one has called him, despite rumors that Thaksin struck a deal to exchange votes during the no-confidence debate, emphasizing that clear legal criteria apply.
At 08:50 on 6 Nov 2026 at the Government House, Chatichai Bangchuad, Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister's Office, acting as chairman of the publicity subcommittee and secretary of the Peace Promotion Committee, updated on the committee's progress. On 2 Nov, the screening subcommittee chaired by the Permanent Secretary of Justice met. The publicity subcommittee he chairs will meet next week. The results from both subcommittees will be presented to the full committee, which is confirmed to meet within November after both subcommittees finalize their findings.
When asked about the number of petitions received by both subcommittees, Chatichai said nearly 30 petitions have been submitted, covering various issues. The screening subcommittee is verifying whether they meet the conditions. Regarding whether many cases involve politicians, he explained that under the Peace Promotion Act, petitions must initially have political motivation. Then, secondary factors are considered to determine relevance. If petitions do not meet the annexed criteria, they will not proceed under the law; otherwise, they will be reviewed further.
Regarding earlier rumors of pressure on the committee and whether anyone had contacted him, Chatichai firmly denied receiving any calls. He said he carries out his duties as committee member and secretary normally. Petitions remain with the screening subcommittee, which conducts fact-checking as part of the standard process without any pressure.
Asked again about pressure, especially since some petitions come from a former prime minister, Chatichai said everything is governed by law with clear criteria. All parties involved have studied these criteria, including petitioners, who must ensure their submissions meet them. Thus, the process follows the law strictly.
Asked if the screening subcommittee has the authority to dismiss petitions outright, Chatichai said they initially can. However, once matters reach the full committee, explanations for dismissal must be provided. He confirmed the subcommittee has the right to offer opinions as they screen petitions before forwarding them to the full committee, which makes the final determination.
Regarding the petition from former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra seeking to clear his name, Chatichai said he knows the screening subcommittee has reviewed it but is unsure if it will be presented at the next full committee meeting.