Bangkok: Tensions ran high in the Senate meeting as Senator Phisit Apiwattanapong expelled fellow Senator Nantana Nantvaropa from the session after she requested a delay in voting on the committee designated to monitor the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). Nantana, who strongly opposed the decision, asserted her right to remain, questioning whether common sense prevails over the law and whether the actions taken were for public interest or personal gain. In the backdrop of this confrontation, Senate President Mongkol Surassajja moved swiftly to make a final decision before initiating a secret meeting.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting, chaired by Mr. Mongkol Surassajja, aimed to consider the selection of a committee responsible for overseeing the performance of the NBTC, as outlined in Section 70 of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission Act of 2010. Senator Nantana Nantvaropa raised concerns about the integrity of the process, emphasizing the importance of the superboard's role and questioning the suitability of the current Senate, many of whom faced allegations of impropriety. She argued that proceeding with the vote could further tarnish the Senate's reputation and urged for a delay until the charges were resolved.
Nantana highlighted the potential conflict of interest in allowing accused Senators to participate in selecting officials who might be involved in judging their cases. She stressed that such actions could undermine the rule of law and public trust, calling for adherence to ethical standards and good governance. Her remarks referenced Mr. Charan Phakdeethanakul, a former Constitutional Court judge, who advocated for a cautious approach and the postponement of votes in similar situations.
Senator Phisit Apiwattanapong countered Nantana's arguments by emphasizing the Senate's previous decision on the matter and accused her of disregarding democratic principles. He suggested that if Nantana was unwilling to participate in the process, she should leave the session. Phisit's comments prompted a heated response from Nantana, who maintained her right to participate in discussions and criticized the motives behind the proceedings.
In a bid to resolve the escalating tension, Mr. Mongkol referenced a prior resolution to halt discussions on the matter. Despite Nantana's insistence on her right to speak and her appeals to the Senators' conscience, Mongkol concluded the debate and proceeded with the agenda of the secret meeting.