NBTC Chairman Must Stop Work Immediately, Panel Rules
Thailand's NBTC selection committee unanimously ruled that Chairman Dr. Sarun Bunbhaichaipruk fails to meet legal qualifications and must immediately cease his duties, with the Prime Minister's Office now required to petition the King for h
Thailand's NBTC selection committee voted unanimously 4-0 that Dr. Sarun Bunbhaichaipruk, the commission's chairman, fails to meet legal qualifications under Section 8(2) of the NBTC Act of 2010 and its amendments, meaning he has forfeited his right to the position under Section 18 of the same law. Former Senator Prapan Kuhamee stated on July 17 that the committee will report its decision to the Prime Minister's Office, which originally referred the matter to the panel. The Prime Minister's Office must then formally petition the King to remove Dr. Sarun from office under Section 20 of the NBTC Act, and the NBTC board will select a new chairman.
Kuhamee emphasized that the selection panel's decision is final in law and Dr. Sarun must stop performing his duties immediately without waiting for royal approval. He noted that the remaining NBTC commissioners must meet to elect a new chairman to report to the Prime Minister. Regarding Dr. Sarun's options, Kuhamee said he could petition the administrative court for interim protection, but the court may decline to hear it since the law clearly states the panel's decision is binding and final.
