Bangkok: Dr. Prem, a senator, has formally requested the Senate President to postpone the certification process for four independent organizations. The aim is to prevent potential accusations of collusion, as ongoing investigations into Senate election issues continue to unfold.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Premsak Piayura submitted a letter to Mr. Mongkol Surachat, President of the Senate, urging a delay in setting up a committee to evaluate the background, conduct, and ethics of individuals nominated for positions within independent organizations. Dr. Premsak highlighted the current public unease over ongoing investigations into the past Senate elections and potential collusion among senators. As a minority of senators not involved in such activities, Dr. Premsak advocated for postponing the committee’s formation until the investigations conclude and the senators under scrutiny are either cleared or found problematic.
Dr. Premsak emphasized that the delay would not impede the functioning of the independent organizations, as the current members could continue their duties temporarily. He expressed that delaying the process would help avoid conflicts of interest and accusations against the organizations post-approval. Dr. Premsak noted that unexpected events in the past warrant a cautious approach, rather than hastily proceeding with approvals.
When questioned about Senator Nantana Nantvaropas’s prior attempt to delay the matter, Dr. Premsak clarified that their approaches might differ, as he did not focus on using the Constitutional Court for impeachment. Instead, he hoped the Senate President and fellow senators would collectively recognize the need for a delay, aligning with public opinion.
Regarding Senator Thewarit Maneechai’s motion to delay the matter, Dr. Premsak stated that his proposal was a letter, not a formal motion. He supported Thewarit’s initiative and requested the Senate to prioritize Thewarit’s motion before addressing the committee on personnel selection for independent organization positions.
Dr. Premsak further explained that the proposal was submitted following procedural norms, and it remained within the advisory meeting’s authority to prioritize the motion. He cited a previous instance where a constitutional amendment proposal was prioritized despite being submitted later, indicating the Senate’s ability to amend the agenda based on meeting approvals.