Politics
Minister Explains Tablet Usage During Parliamentary Session
Minister Suksomruay Wantaniyakul addressed reports of her watching a concert on a tablet during a parliamentary debate, stating it was a brief technical demonstration.
On September 10, 2026, Suksomruay Wantaniyakul, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office and Bhumjaithai Party MP for Amnat Charoen, faced scrutiny after being observed using a tablet to watch an Asanee-Wasan concert during a parliamentary session. The incident occurred while the House was deliberating Section 24 regarding the Ministry of Education, with reports noting that audio from the device was audible to media personnel in the gallery.
In a subsequent explanation, Minister Suksomruay stated that the incident was a brief interaction with fellow MP Watcharapong Kuwijitsuwan. She explained that she had expressed regret over purchasing tickets for the concert but being unable to attend. According to the Minister, MP Watcharapong offered to demonstrate how to register for an on-demand viewing of the performance. She stated that once the registration was successful and she briefly viewed the content—noting the appearance of singer Nantida Kaewbuasai—she closed the application immediately.
For residents and travelers, this incident highlights the ongoing public and media scrutiny regarding the conduct of officials during legislative proceedings in Thailand. While the Minister has provided a personal account of the event, it remains to be confirmed if any formal parliamentary ethics inquiries will be launched regarding the use of electronic devices for non-legislative purposes during active debates.
