Bangkok: "Chusak" confirms "Paethongtarn" can enter the audience to swear an oath to perform the duties of "Minister of Culture" because the Constitutional Court has not yet ruled that she is guilty, only temporarily suspending her duties as Prime Minister.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chusak Sirinil, Minister to the Prime Minister's Office and part of the government's legal team, addressed the issue of the Prime Minister's explanation to the Constitutional Court. He stated that the matter requires a comprehensive view, and the court has allotted a period of 15 days for consideration. When inquired if additional documents were needed, Mr. Chusak mentioned that all necessary documents had already been prepared, though they might be reviewed for any additional requirements.
Regarding the qualifications for the position of Minister of Culture, Mr. Chusak confirmed that Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra is still eligible to take the oath. He explained that some academics or former judges equate the qualifications for Minister of Culture with those of the Prime Minister. However, he asserted that the court has neither made a ruling nor determined that the Prime Minister lacks qualifications, as the court is still in the process of reviewing the petition and seeking explanations.
Mr. Chusak also addressed concerns about Section 160 of the Constitution, which some interpret as implying that a minister must cease performing duties if the Prime Minister is temporarily suspended. He questioned whether the court had explicitly ordered a cessation of duties, citing past instances where temporary suspensions were limited to specific roles, such as in the case of Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong. The court had only ordered a suspension from his role at the Department of Special Investigation, not his position as Minister of Justice.
When asked about potential complaints against Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, who is acting as Prime Minister, Mr. Chusak questioned the basis of such complaints, especially regarding the oath-taking process, which he believed was not a valid concern.
On the question of consulting additional legal teams due to perceived ineffectiveness of the current Pheu Thai Party's legal team, Mr. Chusak noted that while suggestions for improvement are welcome, the root of the issue lies in the need for constitutional amendments to establish clear standards for honesty, integrity, and ethics. He emphasized that current laws should be reviewed for fairness and that it is ultimately the court's discretion that prevails.