Supreme Court Reviews Evidence in 44 Ex-MFP MPs Case, Defense Denies Delay Tactics
The Supreme Court schedules witness hearings for 44 former Move Forward Party MPs accused of serious ethical violations over Section 112, as defense insists 60 witnesses are necessary.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- The Supreme Court holds an evidence review hearing for 44 former Move Forward Party MPs facing severe ethical breaches over Section 112 amendments.
- Court schedules 4 hearings for 9 prosecution witnesses starting August 25, 2026, and 60 defense witness hearings from November 3, 2026, to May 18, 2027.
- Defense lawyer asserts that presenting 60 witnesses is not a delay tactic but a fair opportunity granted by the court.
- Defense witness panel is divided into three main groups: former MPs, academics, and eyewitnesses.
On August 4, 2026, at the Supreme Court on Ratchadamnoen Nai Road, a preliminary evidence review hearing was held for case number Kom.Ch. 1/2026, involving the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) as the petitioner and 44 former Move Forward Party MPs as respondents. The group faces allegations of severe ethical violations stemming from their endorsement of a bill to amend Article 112 of the Criminal Code. Mr. Surapong Intharathavorn, Secretary-General of the NACC, also attended the proceedings.
During the session, the court consulted both parties to establish a structured trial schedule. The petitioner was allocated 4 hearing dates for a total of 9 witnesses, commencing on August 25, 2026. Meanwhile, the defense team, which initially submitted a list of over 80 witnesses before trimming redundant entries, received approval from the Supreme Court to examine 60 witnesses. These hearings will run from November 3, 2026, until the final session on May 18, 2027, ahead of the final verdict reading. The court further instructed both sides to submit witness list tables and preliminary questions in advance.
This high-profile political case stems from the legal fallout following the dissolution of the Move Forward Party and the political bans imposed on its executive board. Severe ethical violation charges under the Thai Constitution and the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption carry heavy penalties, including lifetime political bans. The Supreme Court's decision to permit a substantial witness panel of 60 individuals highlights the meticulous approach required to ensure a comprehensive defense, setting crucial precedents for political accountability and legislative actions in Thailand.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Mr. Nithi La-iaddee, the legal counsel representing the respondents, explained that the 60 defense witnesses are categorized into three core groups. The first group comprises the former MPs themselves, with key figures such as Mr. Pita Limjaroenrat, former leader of the Move Forward Party, and Mr. Natthong Phon Ruengpanyawut, former MP and leader of the People's Party, expected to testify in person pending scheduling confirmations. The second group consists of academic experts in law, political science, and public administration, while the third group includes eyewitnesses familiar with parliamentary duties during that period.
"The large number of witnesses confirms that this is definitely not a delay tactic. As you can see, the court granted our request because it wants the accused to defend themselves thoroughly."
Nithi La-iaddee
The defense attorney added that the timeline stretching through May 2027 is appropriate given the complexity of the case and the volume of evidence, dismissing claims that the schedule is intentionally prolonged. He emphasized that the primary legal defense centers on proving the 44 former MPs actions did not breach ethical standards, thanking the court for providing a fair platform to present their case.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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