A Thai senator has formally requested a parliamentary investigation into the actions of a veteran politician who struck a television reporter on the head after she asked him a question. The incident, captured on video and widely circulated, involved Prawit Wongsuwon, a 79-year-old lawmaker and former deputy prime minister who has been a central figure in Thai politics for decades, including involvement in the country’s last two coups.
The reporter, working for ThaiPBS, approached Prawit on Friday to ask his thoughts on the election of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, as Thailand’s new Prime Minister. Prawit, who has a long-standing rivalry with the Shinawatra family, responded by striking the reporter on the head and shouting, “What are you asking? What are you asking?”
Senator Tewarit Maneechai, who initiated the request for a parliamentary investigation, described the incident as “physical harassment” and disrespectful to the journalist who was simply doing her job. He submitted his request to the Senate, which will then be passed on to the lower house of parliament for review. The lower house has 30 days to respond.
The Palang Pracharat Party, which Prawit leads, has attempted to downplay the incident. Spokesman Piya Tavichai claimed that Prawit knew the reporter well and that the strike was intended as a playful tease. He emphasized that Prawit has apologized for the incident and is willing to clarify the situation in any parliamentary process.
Despite the party’s attempts to dismiss the incident, it has sparked widespread condemnation from Thailand’s media community. ThaiPBS, the reporter’s employer, demanded that Prawit take responsibility for his actions.
The incident highlights concerns about the treatment of journalists in Thailand, where press freedom has been under increasing pressure in recent years. The ethics code for Thai parliamentarians states that members should respect the rights and liberty of others and refrain from using force or threats. If found guilty of violating these rules, Prawit could face disciplinary action. The outcome of the parliamentary investigation will be closely watched to see if it signals a commitment to holding those in power accountable for their actions towards journalists.
