Bangkok: As anticipated, the Senate has approved the appointment of Sarawut Songsiwilai as a Constitutional Court judge, while rejecting the nomination of Sutham Chueaprakobkit. The decision was made during a Senate meeting chaired by Boonsong Noisophon, the Second Vice President of the Senate, which included the agenda of voting on two Constitutional Court judges and one Election Commissioner.

According to Thai News Agency, the Senate Standing Committee had previously examined the backgrounds and ethical conduct of the nominees for the Constitutional Court judge and Election Commissioner positions. The results of this background check were presented in a confidential report before the voting took place.

In the voting for the position of Constitutional Court judge, Sarawut Songsiwilai received 143 votes in favor, 17 against, 27 abstentions, and 2 non-cast votes. This resulted in him receiving more than half of the votes from the senators present, leading to his approval for the position. Sarawut is a former Director-General of the Department of Rail Transport and the Department of Highways, having served during the tenure of Minister of Transport Saksayam Chidchob.

On the other hand, Professor Pol. Lt. Col. Sutham Chueaprakobkit received 39 votes in favor, 118 against, 30 abstentions, and 2 non-cast votes. This outcome was insufficient to secure more than half of the Senate votes, leading to his rejection for the post. Sutham is a lecturer in public administration at Mahidol University and was selected by the committee for his expertise in political science or public administration. However, his association as an advisor to the Minister of Justice might have influenced the Senate’s decision against his appointment.