Bangkok: Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, has indicated that he is awaiting a cabinet decision on who will oversee the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) after Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, the current Minister of Justice, was ordered by the Constitutional Court to stop performing his duties related to the DSI. He emphasized that it is within the Prime Minister's authority to appoint a suitable person for the role.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phumtham, who currently serves as the chairman of the Special Case Committee, noted that the Prime Minister must identify a replacement for the oversight of the DSI following the court's directive. A discussion is scheduled for tomorrow, during which a candidate with relevant expertise may be proposed. While Mr. Phumtham has not indicated his direct involvement in assuming the oversight responsibilities, he stated that he would comply if assigned by the Prime Minister.
Mr. Phumtham further remarked on the hypothetical scenario of him taking charge, noting that there has been no formal order for him to do so. He expressed that his focus would be on fulfilling his duties if required. He stressed that the issue is not a matter of internal politics but rather one of legal compliance and accountability. He reiterated the importance of adhering to legal processes and the role of the court in determining any wrongdoing.