Anti-gov't leader qualified for Bangkok by-election
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Natthawut Saikua is qualified to contest the Bangkok by-election next month, Kamol Bandaiphet, Pheu Thai Party registrar said Monday, according to the Nation online report.
Natthawut, who is the anti-government core leader and terrorism suspect, is now being detained at the Bangkok Remand Prison on terrorism charges in connection with the recent anti-government rallies.
Kamol said Natthawut has studied in Bangkok for at least five years so he is qualified to contest the election in Bangkok. Nathawut studied for a bachelor's degree for four years and master 's degree for two years, Kamol explained.
If the Pheu Thai Party decides to field Natthawut in the by- election, it will depend on the Criminal Court as to whether to approve the request for Natthawut to be released on bail or not, Kamol said.
Kamol said if the court decides against granting bail to Natthawut, the court will have to explain why he can't be released to contest a democratic election.
On June 15, the weekly cabinet meeting approved the July 25 by- election for the Bangkok Constituency 6 as per a proposal of the country's Election Commission (EC).
The by-election is planned to fill the vacant House seat left by ruling Democrat MP Tiva Ngernyuang, who passed away recently.
The candidacy registration will take place between June 28 to July 2. Advance balloting for absentee voters is set for July 17- 18.
The Bangkok Constituency 6 covers Bong Chok, Khlong Samwa, and Bueng Kum district.
