Bangkok: Civil society groups have submitted a request to the Constitutional Court to delay its consideration of the Senate's petition to remove the Prime Minister. The groups expressed concern that an order for the Prime Minister to cease duties could disrupt the country's administration. They also assured that no protests against the group would occur tomorrow.
According to Thai News Agency, the Association for the Promotion of the Examination of the Use of State Power by the People (A.P.P.), led by its secretary Mr. Pichai Pitak, has formally submitted a letter to the President of the Constitutional Court. The letter requests a postponement in considering the petition from the President of the Senate, which is backed by 36 senators. The petition seeks a ruling under Section 170, paragraph three, along with Section 82 of the Constitution, on whether Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra has seriously violated ethical standards, a violation that could result in the termination of her ministerial position.
Mr. Pichai stated that the association views the accusations against the Prime Minister as excessively severe. They have urged the Constitutional Court to delay the decision on whether to accept the petition and recommend gathering more information and evidence before issuing any orders. The association is concerned that if the court accepts the petition and orders the Prime Minister to stop performing duties, it could hinder the administration of the country.
Mr. Pichai further explained that the Prime Minister's initial conversation was likely an attempt to gain sympathy from the other party. He emphasized that decisions related to governance are the domain of the parliament, not the Prime Minister alone. The association believes that the Prime Minister should be allowed to continue governing, and any necessary checks should come from the parliament.
Mr. Pichai also commented on the latest audio clip involving Cambodian leader Samdech Hun Sen, describing it as a personal matter aimed at devaluing Thai citizens. He remarked that any discussions involving Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra, the Prime Minister's father, were likely business-related and did not threaten national integrity.
When questioned about the possibility of the Ruam Palang Phaendin group rallying to oust the Prime Minister, Mr. Pichai clarified that his association would not participate in any protests. He emphasized that the association's goal is to uphold the constitution and protect the public, asserting that the Prime Minister's conduct in the Cambodia case does not justify removal.