Thai politician investigated after slapping female reporter

Thailand’s parliament has announced an investigation into senior politician and former army chief Prawit Wongsuwon after he was caught on camera slapping a young female reporter from ThaiPBS. The incident occurred when journalist Duangthip Yiamphop attempted to question Prawit about the appointment of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Thailand’s new prime minister. Prawit, infuriated beyond reason, went upside the reporter’s head a few times while shouting ‘what?’

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, particularly from the Thai Journalists Association, which criticized Prawit’s actions as an attack on the freedom of the press. ThaiPBS has formally complained, prompting the parliamentary investigation, which could result in Prawit’s suspension, or a lifetime ban, if found guilty of a serious ethical breach. Prawit, who played a significant role in Thailand’s 2014 military coup and served as deputy prime minister under the military-backed government, has since apologized, claiming he ‘did not have any bad intention.’