Carabao frontman to hear defamation charge

Performer Yuenyong “Aed Carabao” Opakul is to report to police on Tuesday and answer a charge of defaming the governor of Suphan Buri province during an offensive rant last week, a senior police officer said.

Yuenyong: Hoped to perform for locals

Pol Maj Gen Uthai Kawindechathorn, deputy commissioner of Provincial Police Region 7, yesterday said the Carabao frontman will be called into Song Phi Nong police station to hear the charge against him.

Police decided to press the charge after considering all evidence filed by lawyers on behalf of governor Nattapat Suwanpratheep on Sunday.

The band played at a birthday function for Piyaphot Kiatchusakul, chief of kamnans, in Song Phi Nong district on Oct 12. The band leader allegedly used the stage to accuse the governor of lacking respect for not inviting Carabao to play during Elephant Duel, despite being a Suphan Buri native.

“Do you know who I am?” Aed Carabao allegedly said during the event, demanding that the governor get up on stage to give an explanation.

Mr Nattapat was one of the guests at the function but left before the concert began.

Elephant Duel day is revered among locals in the province.

Mr Nattapat on Facebook on Oct 13 said no concerts were allowed at the event this year due to strict social distancing measures.

Despite an apology made by Aed Carabao, calling the issue a misunderstanding, the governor said he would follow through with his lawsuit to maintain his dignity.