Democrat deputy leader Witthaya Kaewparadai slammed the three members of the Election Commission for the legal tactic.

They are standing trial in Nakhon Si Thammarat for alleged inaction that prevented a man running for mayor.

The commissioners want the trial relocated to Bangkok, claiming they fear their lives would be endangered if it proceeded in Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Witthaya said the commissioners were trying to stall judicial proceedings.

"It is nonsense to cite personal safety as a reason for the trial to be moved to the capital," he said, adding that the southern town was safe.

The three commissioners have asked the Supreme Court to rule on the change of venue motion.

The trial in the provincial court is almost finished. The last witnesses should be heard this week.

EC chairman Vasana Puemlarp and commissioners Prinya Nakchudtree and Virachai Naewboonnien are fighting criminal charges for negligence preventing Prayad Semapat from running for mayoral office.

Pending the Supreme Court ruling, Prayad will call his prosecution witnesses tomorrow. The defendants will present their case the following day.

A Supreme Court source said there was no precedent for a change of venue as a result of fears for a defendant's safety. Motions for change of venue have been granted for reasons of fairness and national security, the source said.