PM Paetongtarn under fire for media freedom feud

Prolific petitioner Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has once again targeted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra with a fresh complaint, charging her with an alleged assault on media freedom—a move he claims could topple her from power.

Today, October 15, Ruangkrai announced that he’s officially lodged a request with the Election Commission (EC), urging a probe into PM Paetongtarn’s supposedly controversial chat with a journalist during a media session. According to Ruangkrai, the PM’s conduct was not only unbecoming of her office but also potentially in breach of Section 184 of the Constitution. If the claims stand, she might face the axe under Section 170 of the charter.

Should the EC decide Ruangkrai’s claim holds water, the issue will be thrust into the spotlight of the Constitutional Court for a final say. The uproar stems from the 38 year old PM’s fiery exchange at Government House, which found its way onto ch3plus.com with the sizzling headline: The premier is upset by reporting of the government’s position on charter amendment.

The drama unfolded when a reporter grilled the Thai premier on a perceived rift with coalition partners over amendments they believed reversed past stances. PM Paetongtarn fired back, urging journalists to steer clear of such provocative questions, assuring everyone that the coalition consulted comprehensively on key matters, both pre-and post-Cabinet meetings.

She clarified that constitutional tinkering wasn’t on the immediate agenda, with efforts refocused on flood relief. In a stern reminder, PM Paetongtarn noted that a solid, united government served the public best, advising against questions that could sow discord.

Ruangkrai argues that Paetongtarn’s remarks could be seen as an attempt to muzzle the media, infringing on their constitutional duty to scrutinise government actions—a potential violation of Section 184, which bars the PM and lawmakers from obstructing media work, reported Bangkok Post.

This case marks Ruangkrai’s second swipe at Paetongtarn within days. Just recently, on October 8, he accused her of a political faux pas for appointing advisors Surapong Suebwonglee and Nattawut Saikua, both carrying the baggage of past prison sentences.