Bangkok: Chusak Sirinil, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office, has expressed his belief that the statement made by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to the Constitutional Court concerning an audio clip involving her conversation with Samdech Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate, is factual and not intended to harm the nation's honor and dignity. He emphasized that Pheu Thai does not have a contingency plan in place should any political complications arise.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chusak, in his address, affirmed that the Prime Minister's remarks were grounded in fact and were not meant to tarnish the country's image. He assured that the facts were widely recognized and that the Prime Minister's statement was comprehensive.
When questioned about the clarity of the explanation concerning the conversation about the Second Army Region commander and the expression "Tell me what you want," Mr. Chusak responded that the explanation was satisfactory and addressed all aspects.
Mr. Chusak denied having knowledge about who was drafting the law for the Prime Minister when asked. He maintained that he could not comment on the matter.
Regarding whether the Prime Minister should attend the Constitutional Court's witness examination on August 21st, Mr. Chusak stated that it was the Prime Minister's prerogative to attend or to appoint someone, such as a lawyer or legal expert, to represent her.
Discussing whether it would be beneficial for Ms. Paetongtarn to personally attend or delegate responsibility, Mr. Chusak suggested that the decision should be based on the clarity and conclusiveness of the facts.
Mr. Chusak addressed the situation where the Prime Minister requested five witnesses but the Constitutional Court permitted only one. He noted that the Secretary-General of the National Security Council considered security issues pertinent to the petition, bringing in security-related witnesses to provide their testimonies.
When asked about the Pheu Thai Party's plans if Ms. Paetongtarn were to be removed from her position, Mr. Chusak stated that no discussions had taken place, advising against speculation. He expressed confidence in providing necessary clarifications when needed.
On the matter of whether Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, acting as Prime Minister, could dissolve Parliament in the event of a political accident, Mr. Chusak remarked that the issue was legal and multifaceted. He described the media's inquiry as speculative and reiterated that the situation was not as critical as suggested, indicating that he had not yet contemplated potential outcomes.