Two media associations will seek an investigation into the conduct of Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon after he assaulted a female reporter on Friday.

The Thai Broadcast Journalists Association and the News Broadcasting Council of Thailand said Gen Prawit’s behaviour could violate the code of conduct for MPs.

The two associations said they had carefully reviewed videos taken of the incident on Friday and concluded that Gen Prawit’s behaviour towards the reporter was intimidation and not playful teasing as some of his supporters said.

Thai PBS, the employer of the reporter involved in the incident, also said that Gen Prawit should take responsibility for his actions.

Military reporter Duangthip Yiamphop asked her question politely and it was relevant to Gen Prawit, indicating she was performing her job honestly, Thai PBS said.

In a video, Gen Prawit appeared heavily agitated when asked about Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra being endorsed as prime minister.

Gen Prawit slapped the reporter on the head twice and asked repeatedly: “What did you ask?”

Being mistreated by a news source is unacceptable and undermines the integrity of journalism, Thai PBS said.