Law
Thai Lawyer Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Justice Minister
Lawyer Phatthaphong Suphakson has initiated legal action against Justice Minister Pol. Lt. Gen. Rutthaphon Naowarat, alleging defamation regarding comments made about his family.
On August 31, 2026, lawyer Phatthaphong Suphakson, known as 'Lawyer Aun Buriram,' filed a defamation lawsuit at the Criminal Court in Bangkok against the Minister of Justice, Pol. Lt. Gen. Rutthaphon Naowarat. The legal action follows public remarks made by the Minister at Government House, where he allegedly discussed the personal history of Phatthaphong’s parents in a manner the lawyer claims was defamatory and damaging to his reputation.
According to Khaosod Online, Phatthaphong is pursuing charges under sections 326, 328, 329, and 393 of the Criminal Code, which cover defamation by publication and insults. The Criminal Court has scheduled a preliminary hearing for the case on November 30, 2026. Beyond the criminal complaint, Phatthaphong has indicated his intention to pursue a petition for the Minister’s removal, citing alleged violations of ethical standards.
For residents and visitors, this development highlights a high-profile political dispute involving a senior cabinet member. While the case is currently a legal matter between two individuals, it underscores the ongoing public discourse regarding the conduct of government officials and the mechanisms for public accountability in Thailand. It remains to be confirmed how the court will rule during the November hearing and whether the subsequent petition for removal will gain formal traction.