Uncertainty Surrounds Ex-Con Pichit’s Cabinet Appointment
Prime Minister Srettha remains under scrutiny as the Constitutional Court prepares to rule on a legal case regarding his capacity to maintain his position. The outcome is anticipated on Wednesday, with analysts expressing doubts about the ramifications of his controversial appointment of ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister.
Political science expert Olarn Thinbangtieo from Burapha University believes the court will side with the prime minister, noting that Srettha asserted the legality of Pichit’s appointment by seeking prior legal counsel.
“The prime minister emphasized that the decision to appoint Pichit adhered to legal standards. The government is focused on preserving its authority and advancing core policies while maintaining coalition harmony,” stated Thinbangtieo.
If the court rules in Srettha’s favor, he must prioritize implementing significant initiatives, such as the digital wallet distribution program, to regain public trust amid declining popularity. A cabinet reshuffle may also be on the horizon to address key posts, according to Thinbangtieo.
Conversely, if Srettha faces removal, potential successors may include prominent figures from various parties, such as Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul.
Stithorn Thananithichot from the Office of Innovation for Democracy speculates that Srettha’s adherence to protocol—confirming Pichit’s qualifications and consulting with the Council of State—will weigh heavily in the court’s decision.
Echoing these sentiments, Thananithichot believes a successful court outcome would likely prompt a cabinet reshuffle from Srettha, who has indicated openness to such changes following any favorable ruling.
Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, leader of the coalition United Thai Nation Party, recently urged a cabinet shake-up to fill a ministerial vacancy within the party’s quota.
Academic Pornamrin Promgird asserts that the Constitutional Court’s ruling will consider the political fallout of removing Srettha during a period of economic turbulence.
“A dismissal would reset the political landscape, delaying government formation amidst ongoing economic challenges, a scenario the court is likely to evaluate,” said Promgird.
During a statement at Government House, Srettha disclosed he would not attend the court session due to scheduling constraints but has entrusted his secretary-general to represent him. “I submitted my closing statement weeks ago and have done my utmost; the decision now rests with the judiciary,” Srettha remarked.
A petition to oust the prime minister was filed by 40 former senators in May, criticizing the selection of Pichit due to his past conviction for contempt of court concerning attempts to bribe Supreme Court officials in 2008.
Pichit had resigned from his ministerial post prior to the petition’s acceptance to preempt any legal complications for Srettha. While the court agreed to address the case against the prime minister, it dismissed the case targeting Pichit due to his resignation.
