Law
House Speaker Clarifies Procedures for Arrest Warrants Against MPs
House Speaker Sophon Sarum stated that any arrest warrants issued by the DSI against Members of Parliament must receive parliamentary approval during session.
On September 23, 2026, House Speaker Sophon Sarum addressed media inquiries regarding potential arrest warrants from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) involving two People's Party MPs, Phawut Pongvitayapanu and Somchat. The investigation is reportedly linked to the Forex-3D case.
Speaker Sophon emphasized that under the Thai Constitution, MPs are protected by parliamentary privilege during active sessions. Consequently, if the DSI intends to execute an arrest warrant or issue a summons for a sitting member, they must formally request permission from the House of Representatives. The Speaker noted that if the House grants approval, the legal process may proceed; however, if permission is denied, the member retains their constitutional immunity. He added that individual members may choose to waive this privilege, though the formal procedure involving the House remains a constitutional requirement.
For residents and travelers, this development highlights the intersection of parliamentary immunity and high-profile legal investigations in Thailand. While this situation primarily concerns legislative procedures, it underscores the ongoing scrutiny surrounding the Forex-3D case. It remains to be confirmed whether the DSI will formally submit the necessary documentation to the House and how the Parliament will vote on the matter should the request be officially filed. The Speaker also confirmed that the opposition's motion for a general debate will proceed as scheduled.