National —
At 10:30 AM on August 21st, 2024, Mr. Nopadol Srihathai, the executive editor of Thai PBS, submitted a formal request to House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, calling for an ethics investigation into Gen. Prawit Wongsuwon, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, over allegations of media harassment during an interview.
Nopadol stated that after thoroughly reviewing the incident and discussing it with the affected reporter, Thai PBS felt compelled to request the investigation. He emphasized that Gen. Prawit’s actions were unethical and unacceptable, particularly from a public media organization responsible for protecting reporters’ rights.
He stressed that such actions could create a harmful precedent, potentially infringing on press freedom if journalists are intimidated or threatened.
Regarding any potential criminal charges, Nopadol left the matter to the Thai Broadcast Journalists Association and the National Press Council, as the reporter involved chose not to file a complaint.
The focus, he said, is on setting an ethical standard for the media, allowing them to work without fear of harassment. Whether Gen. Prawit will be held accountable is for the House of Representatives to decide.
Nopadol further noted that while the media must continue its duty, the case highlights the importance of protecting journalistic rights. He emphasized that asking questions the public wants answered is essential and should not be hindered by political pressure.
In response to Gen. Prawit’s claim that his actions were merely playful, Nopadol countered that the footage clearly did not reflect a playful interaction, and it is important to distinguish between teasing, harassment, and physical assault.
This article originally appeared on our sister website The Pattaya News.
