Politician Blasts Government Rushing National Broadcast Chief Appointment While Case Pending
A senator criticized the government for rushing to appoint the national broadcast chief to the Crown while a Supreme Administrative Court case questioning his status remains pending, calling out what he views as inconsistent legal standards
On September 3, Senator Premsak Piayurate commented on the Supreme Administrative Court accepting a case regarding the status of Dr. Sorn Bunyibchaiyapruck, chairman of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, saying the government and Prime Minister must reconsider the appropriateness of submitting the matter to the Crown while the legal dispute remains under court consideration.
Premsak noted that the Prayut Chan-o-cha government previously established guidelines requiring careful review of submissions, particularly when complaints or court cases are pending and unresolved. He questioned why the Prime Minister rushed the submission before the legal matter was settled, noting this requires explanation.
Premsak also criticized Deputy Prime Minister for Legal Affairs Pakorn Neilpraphan's position that there is no need to withdraw the matter since the court has only accepted the case without yet issuing a judgment. He raised concerns about inconsistent legal standards, pointing out that when acting Prime Minister Bhumidhamma Vejayano faced issues regarding a dissolution decree, the legal team expressed concerns about propriety. Now that Pakorn holds the position of Deputy Prime Minister for Legal Affairs, Premsak demanded clarity on why the same principles appear to apply differently in both cases, questioning whether this constitutes a "double standard."
Premsak further stated that if the Prime Minister's submission caused offense while the matter remained unresolved, the Prime Minister—who often claims to be straightforward—should simply issue a clarification and public apology rather than face pressure to resign. However, he stressed that political responsibility must be demonstrated. Premsak also emphasized that the Deputy Prime Minister for Legal Affairs bears significant responsibility, as his legal advice directly affects the government's image, and every recommendation must be applied consistently and without discrimination.
