National—
On May 22nd, 2024, Thai Senator Direkrit Jenkrongtham revealed to national media that he and 39 other senators had petitioned to impeach Mr. Pichit Chuenban, the Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The Constitutional Court was scheduled to meet today (May 23rd) to decide whether to accept the petition for consideration.
Direkrit stated that although Pichit’s resignation might lead the Constitutional Court to dismiss the case, the court could still consider it to establish a legal precedent if the issue pertains to public administration or holds public interest.
Meanwhile, Direkrit resigned from his role as Vice-Chairperson of the Committee on Political Development and Public Participation. He expressed disappointment over accusations from some senators who claimed he was causing national problems and attempting to overthrow the government.
Direkrit asserted that these statements defamed his reputation and disrespected him. Despite his resignation from the vice-chair position, he will continue to serve in other committee roles.
Regarding Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, Direkrit remarked that the Constitutional Court might either dismiss the case following Pichit’s resignation or proceed with an investigation. The court could request evidence to confirm that Srettha appointed Pichit based on honest and prudent judgment, without external influence.
On May 23rd, 2024, Thai national media reported that the Constitutional Court voted six to three to consider the petition against Srettha Thavisin. The court has given Srettha 15 days to respond to the complaint from the date he received a copy.
Meanwhile, the court voted eight to one to dismiss the petition against Pichit Chuenban. Additionally, the judges voted five to four not to suspend Srettha from his duties as Prime Minister during the investigation.
