PAD files 3 more lawsuits against PM, ministers
The People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) is stepping up pressure on caretaker Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra with three court challenges against him and members of his Cabinet.
The anti-government movement yesterday said it would lodge three actions against the government before August 15. One action accuses Thaksin and Finance Minister Thanong Bidaya of violating Article 157 of the Criminal Code. It claims they misappropriated national lottery money to fund Thai Rak Thai Party political campaigns. The second allegation contends Thanong wrongfully failed to prosecute three former election commissioners for wasting Bt2.4 billion in taxpayer cash to hold the annulled April elections. The third action is a counter claim against Thaksin and deputy premier Chidchai Vanasatidya's accusation that PAD leaders tried to illegally overthrow the government. Somkiat Pongpaiboon, a PAD leader, said litigation against Thaksin seemed to be heading nowhere while that against the PAD was moving quickly. The PAD urged a clearing out at the Election Commission. "Many EC staff are still part of Thaksin's network," said Pibhop Dhongchai, another PAD chief. PAD leader Chamlong Srimuang vowed he would continue his opposition to Thaksin if the courts failed to fully consider allegations against him.
|
