Bangkok: “Nakarin,” President of the Constitutional Court, expressed his concerns but emphasized his commitment to assessing the audio clip involving “PM-Hun Sen.” He refrained from confirming whether a resolution would be reached by July 1st, noting that it is not always necessary to halt duties.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nakarin Mektrairat, President of the Constitutional Court, discussed a petition filed by Mr. Mongkol Surassajja, President of the Senate. The petition requests that the Constitutional Court determine if Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra’s status as Prime Minister has been individually terminated under Section 170, Paragraph Three of the Constitution, in conjunction with Section 160 (4) and (5). This arises from an audio clip conversation with Samdech Hun Sen. Mr. Nakarin noted that a meeting was pre-scheduled for July 1st to decide if the Criminal Procedure Code violates the Constitution. While the audio clip complaint is still under review, he emphasized the need for the Constitutional Court to ensure all documents align with proper procedures.

Mr. Nakarin mentioned the possibility of considering the audio clip on July 1st, but stressed the need for a thorough examination of documents by the judiciary. He outlined two potential outcomes: accepting or rejecting the case. However, he indicated the uncertainty of reaching an order by July 1st, as the documents must be reviewed before convening a 9-member panel.

Regarding whether the Constitutional Court will halt duties if the audio clip case is accepted on July 1st, Mr. Nakarin stated that stopping duties is not always required. The decision depends on whether continuing duties would cause harm. Historically, some cases were accepted without stopping duties.

The Constitutional Court does not expedite cases of interest but has not experienced delays in recent cases, with almost no pending cases. The only exception is the case related to Article 144 of the Constitution, concerning budget conversion for personal gain, which mandates a 15-day consideration period by the Constitutional Court.

When questioned about concerns over the potential impact of the audio clip case, Mr. Nakarin acknowledged his concerns but reiterated his duty. He confirmed no ongoing cases regarding government overthrow following the dismissal of a previous case.