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Published on November 14, 2007

The party said the Election Commission had no cause to suspect it of involvement in any violation of the ban on Thai Rak Thai executives participating in the electoral process.

"Banned executives such as Sudarat Keyuraphan and Newin Chidchob have no role in the selection of candidates," party deputy secretary-general Chusak Sirinil said.

He said banned Thai Rak Thai executives were linked to his party in an advisory capacity only, which is not included in the ban.

Banned people are not allowed to hold party memberships or executive positions, form or register new parties, vote or run in an election and hold ministerial portfolios, work for independent state organisations, sponsor bills or initiate impeachment proceedings.

Puea Pandin Party leader Suwit Khunkitti said no banned person was involved in its decision-making.

"I seek their advice because of their political experience, but these advisers have not been involved in any political decisions made by the party," he said.

Meanwhile, an Election Commission-appointed panel has heard evidence about classified junta documents allegedly undermining the People Power.

 Party leader Samak Sundaravej and anti-coup activist Weng Tojirakarn were among those giving statements to the panel, led by retired chief prosecutor Suphon Yuthithada.

Suphon said Samak and other witnesses cooperated with the investigation. He may have the documents examined forensically to prove their authenticity.

Tomorrow, junta chief Air Chief Marshal Chalit Phukphasuk and a senior Army officer Colonel Chatchalerm Chalermsuk will appear.

The Nation