National —
On July 24th, 2024, the Thai Constitutional Court convened to review a petition from 40 senators questioning Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s decision to appoint Mr. Pichit Chuenban as Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The petition argues that Srettha knew or should have known Pichit was ineligible due to a prior six-month prison sentence for contempt of court, violating ethical standards under the Thai constitution.
The Thai Constitutional Court issued a statement noting that the case presents significant legal questions with sufficient evidence, leading to the termination of further investigations. Parties involved must submit closing statements by July 31st.
The court scheduled an oral hearing and deliberation for August 14th at 9:30 AM, with the final ruling set for 3:00 PM the same day.
Mr. Somchai Sawangkan, a former senator and petitioner, emphasized the seriousness of appointing a disqualified individual, confident that the court’s decision will affirm Srettha’s accountability.
TPN Media notes that in layman’s terms this could see Mr. Thavisin removed from his position as PM and a significant shakeup of the current Thai government if he is found guilty.
