NBTC panel finds no wrongdoing in Thaksin broadcast, urges caution on programming
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A National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) subcommittee on TV programming and content has found no wrongdoing in relation to the appearance of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra in a live broadcast of a Thai boxing match in Mac
However, Lt-General Perapong Manakit, chairman of the subcommittee, which is overseen by the NBTC’s broadcasting committee, said his panel had resolved that all public TV broadcasters should exercise more caution to ensure that TV programming does not lead to social and political confrontation among Thais.
“I hope that such an event will not reoccur at any public TV broadcaster in the Kingdom,” Perapong said.
Perapong held a press conference after discussing the issue with Public Relations Department (PRD) deputy director-general Ampawan Charoenkul and three other executives of the department, which operates Channel 11 (commonly known as NBT).
The controversy erupted after fugitive ex-prime minister Thaksin appeared on the state-controlled channel to preside over the opening of a Thai boxing programme televised live from Macau on December 9.
“In fact, the appearance of the former premier on Channel 11 early this month is not considered to be TV content that conflicts with section 37 of the Telecommunications Business Act of 2001,” Perapong said, citing his subcommittee’s resolution.
The subcommittee also found no wrongdoing in the airtime-subleasing contract between the PRD and its contractor.
Perapong acknowledged, however, that Thaksin’s appearance on Channel 11 had fuelled the conflict between his supporters and opponents.
“Given this sensitive point, TV broadcasters should pay more attention to whether programmes will create further conflicts between people with different political and social ideas,” he said.
The resolution by the subcommittee will be submitted for approval and a decision on any further action to the NBTC’s broadcasting committee in January.
Last week the NBTC’s broadcasting committee postponed its decision on what action should be taken over the issue citing a lack of data and evidence.
