Bangkok: Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Saram has addressed concerns raised by the opposition regarding the qualifications of ministers from Buriram Province during the policy statement to Parliament. He emphasized that it is within the opposition's rights to debate these qualifications, asserting that the position of the Buriram minister is not a problem. Sophon stressed that no individual is above the law, referring to his own arrest in connection with the Khao Kradong and Senate collusion cases.
According to Thai News Agency, Sophon elaborated on the opposition's rights, stating that qualifications are based on legal and social acceptance. He noted that evaluating a person's suitability involves both worldly and spiritual measures. As a native of Buriram, Sophon expressed his belief that the origins of a minister should not be a concern. He pointed out that the impact of a minister on the nation and society is what truly matters. Sophon underscored the importance of utilizing both political and personal resources to gain public understanding ahead of the next election, highlighting politics as a vital element for national development.
Addressing perceptions that he acts as a representative for Newin Chidchob, president of Buriram United Football Club, Sophon acknowledged that he has long been viewed as a nominee. He mentioned that everyone has a nominee, including his wife's, and that he serves as a nominee of the Bhumjaithai Party. The exercise of power, he stated, is what truly counts.
On the subject of the public's scrutiny of the Khao Kradong case, Sophon affirmed that all parties involved have committed to acting within the legal framework, reiterating that no one is above the law. He emphasized the importance of the present, citing the Buddha's teachings about the difficulty of changing the past and the uncertainty of the future.
Public concerns persist regarding the potential disappearance of former Senate members should the Bhumjaithai government assume power. Sophon reassured that officials remain accountable and cannot simply vanish, as they are merely fulfilling their roles. He emphasized that no one possesses the authority to command others arbitrarily.