Bangkok: Calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul have intensified following alleged mismanagement of the oil market and seven purported ethical violations. Mongkolkitt Suksintharanon and lawyer Patarapong Supakorn, also known as Lawyer Aun Buriram, are spearheading this demand.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Patarapong submitted a letter urging Prime Minister Anutin to resign, citing his failure to uphold ethical standards as outlined in Section 160(4) and (5) of the Constitution. The letter alleges that Mr. Anutin has acted unethically in his roles as Prime Minister, Minister of Public Health, and Minister of Interior, violating seven constitutional points.

These ethical violations include the appointment of unqualified individuals, misuse of state resources for personal gain, and conflicts of interest involving the MotoGP race at Chang Arena and the appointment of a PTT executive as Minister of Energy. Additionally, Mr. Anutin is accused of compromising the neutrality of the civil service and public administration, manipulating the recent election process, and failing to ensure transparency in oil reserves and price adjustments.

Mr. Mongkolkitt highlighted that the alleged inefficiency in public administration and energy management, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has eroded public trust in Mr. Anutin. He emphasized the necessity for Mr. Anutin to resign to ensure a fair investigation and restore public confidence.

Mr. Patarapong further questioned the ethical implications of appointing individuals with vested interests in oil price increases and criticized the absence of transparent oil reserve reporting. He and Mr. Mongkolkitt have mobilized a nationwide movement urging affected citizens to demand Mr. Anutin's resignation, citing their constitutional rights.

Mr. Mongkolkitt also alleged voter manipulation through bribes, criticizing Mr. Anutin's supporters for prioritizing personal gains over public welfare. He called for a peaceful demonstration to express public discontent and pressure the government for change.

The campaign leaders argue that Mr. Anutin's resignation would be beneficial, urging him to consider the declining public support since the election. They stress the need for competent leadership that can effectively address the nation's energy issues and improve citizens' livelihoods.