Court Rejects Urgent Petition in NBTC Chair Dispute
The Central Administrative Court rejected NBTC chairman Dr. Sorin's urgent petition to overturn a finding that his part-time physician work disqualifies him from the position, with a full ruling expected within days.
On August 4, 2025, the Central Administrative Court rejected Dr. Sorin Bunyaiphaipruck's urgent petition filed the previous day in case number 1455/2569. Dr. Sorin, the NBTC chairman, sought court review to overturn the recruitment committee's finding that he is legally barred from holding the position because of his part-time physician work. He argued the committee exceeded its legal authority and acted without neutrality or transparency, denying him a fair hearing. He also contended that the committee's decision alone cannot remove him from office, as the committee can only nominate candidates for Senate approval.
The court ruled that no urgent interim relief was necessary before a full judgment. The case remains in pre-assignment stages pending judicial panel appointment. Dr. Suphatra Hasuwannakij, a constitutional development adviser, noted that if the court grants temporary protection, the Prime Minister must delay any removal petition; conversely, without court protection, immediate dismissal becomes possible. The Thai Legal Counsel's Committee concluded on August 3 that the recruitment committee has authority to assess qualifications and deemed its decision final. A court ruling is expected within days. Dr. Sorin should cease his duties immediately due to his original lack of qualifications, Dr. Suphatra added, warning that upcoming NBTC meetings on August 5–6 may be disrupted and critical agendas like the digital TV roadmap remain stalled. Legal scholar Wuth Tingssmit viewed Dr. Sorin's court filing as procedurally sound but noted the outcome depends on judicial interpretation.
