Doubt over Pirapan's eligibility is not present
In a hot turn of events, Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga is facing scrutiny over his eligibility to serve in the cabinet due to allegations surrounding shares he once owned in private companies. Political activist Sonthiya Sawasdee lodged a petition with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) on April 23, claiming that Pirapan's continued benefits from these companies violate Section 187 of the constitution, disqualifying cabinet ministers from holding shares in private companies.
In response, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has spoken up, expressing confidence that Pirapan's eligibility was thoroughly examined before his appointment to the cabinet. However, legal experts suggest that Pirapan could face disqualification by the Constitutional Court if the allegations hold water, considering his involvement in executive roles in private firms as well[2][4].
Amid the stir, the PM downplayed rumors of an imminent cabinet reshuffle. She assured that all proposed appointments, including Pirapan's, were checked thoroughly by the Secretariat of the Cabinet and other organizations to ensure eligibility before the line-up was submitted for royal endorsement.
The PM brushed off concerns about a replay of the fate that befell former premier Srettha Thavisin, who was removed by the Constitutional Court last August over an ethical violation related to his appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a cabinet minister, given Mr Pichit's criminal record[5]. She believed Pirapan was well aware of the intense scrutiny coming his way and would have prepared for it before assuming his role as cabinet minister, following the fallout with Srettha[5].
It's important to note that Pirapan is also facing criticism for alleged constitutional breaches, but it's the share ownership and private company roles that have spurred specific eligibility concerns[3][4]. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story!
The petition lodged by Sonthiya Sawasdee with the National Anti-Corruption Commission accuses Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga of owning shares in private companies, which allegedly violates Section 187 of the constitution. Legal experts have suggested that if these allegations are true, Pirapan could face disqualification by the Constitutional Court. This highlighted issue contrasts with the general news and politics surrounding policy-and-legislation, yet it has sparked a wave of eligibility concerns regarding Pirapan's shares and involvement in private firms. Despite the controversy, the Prime Minister has expressed confidence in Pirapan's eligibility and also downplayed rumors of a cabinet reshuffle.
