On November 11, 2024, Sontiya Sawasdee submitted a petition to Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) requesting the removal of Sitra Biabungkerd, known as "Lawyer Tam," from the Senate reserve list. Sitra currently holds the fourth position on this list, nominated by a public interest organization. Sontiya’s petition argues that Sitra’s alleged actions violate Sections 98(6) and 96(3) of the 2017 Thai Constitution. Sitra is currently facing legal action and is under police custody, which disqualifies him from holding or pursuing political office, including serving as a Member of Parliament or minister, for life.
The petition also calls for an investigation into Senator Dr. Nantana Nantawaropas, who awarded Sitra a distinguished alumni plaque in 2018 on behalf of the College of Political Communication. Sontiya raised concerns about the lack of thorough vetting, citing a past incident in which Sitra represented a defendant in a high-profile child homicide case. Sontiya contends that Nantana’s recognition of Sitra could have misled the public and damaged social trust.
Additionally, Sontiya urged Nantana and Krirk University, where she is affiliated, to address the situation publicly, suggesting that a formal apology would demonstrate accountability.