The Thai PBS and the Thai Journalists’ Association (TJA) are demanding that Palang Pracharath party leader General Prawit Wongsuwan take responsibility for his alleged attempts to intimidate a Thai PBS reporter.
General Prawit, who is widely known for his ambition to become the prime minister of Thailand one day, appeared agitated when approached by the Thai PBS reporter. She had asked him whether he had watched the live broadcast of MPs voting for Pheu Thai party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Thailand’s 31st prime minister.
In a video clip, General Prawit is seen using his hand to grab the reporter’s head while repeatedly asking, “What’s the question?”
The Thai PBS issued a statement saying it was clear the reporter was performing her professional duties, and that the physical assault was unacceptable.
The incident undoubtedly had psychological effects on the reporter and other journalists. Therefore, the station has called on General Prawit to take responsibility for the incident.
Meanwhile, the TJA's statement condemned General Prawit’s actions as an act of intimidation against free expression by reporters, who were merely performing their duties. They demanded that the former deputy prime minister take responsibility for his appalling conduct.
The TJA also urged everyone to show mutual respect for those in other professions and to be mindful of their expressions of anger, which may have negative effects.
