Bangkok: The Senate has approved the nomination of Police Lieutenant General Sarayut Songwanphokhai as the new Ombudsman. In a session chaired by Mr. Boonsong Noisophon, the Second Vice President of the Senate, 135 senators voted in favor of Sarayut's appointment during the 17th Senate meeting of the first regular session of the year. This decision followed Section 13 of the Organic Act on Ombudsman B.E. 2560, requiring a majority approval of at least 99 votes from the Senate members.
According to Thai News Agency, the voting process was conducted by secret ballot. Out of 157 present members, none voted against the nomination, 21 abstained, and one chose not to vote. The Senate's decision confirms Sarayut's appointment, marking a significant step in the Ombudsman selection process.
Additionally, the Senate voted not to disclose the proceedings of four meetings and the secret report compiled by the Standing Committee, which is tasked with investigating the history, conduct, and ethical behavior of nominees for the position of Ombudsman. This decision aligns with Section 129, paragraph 6 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand. Out of 154 members, 141 supported the motion for confidentiality, while six opposed, and seven abstained.
The meeting concluded at 11:13 a.m., marking the end of a pivotal session focused on transparency and ethical considerations in the Ombudsman selection process.