Bangkok: Speaker Chuan Leekpai has voiced strong criticism against political interference in the Constitutional Court's judicial structure, cautioning against allowing debts of gratitude to influence the court's rulings.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chuan Leekpai, a list MP from the Democrat Party, stated that he was among the 133 individuals who exercised their constitutional rights under Article 173 to request the Speaker of the House of Representatives to seek a ruling from the Constitutional Court. This was regarding whether an emergency decree complied with Article 172 of the Constitution, which pertains to maintaining national security, public safety, economic stability, or preventing public disasters. The Constitutional Court has ruled unanimously that paragraph one of Article 5, which concerns loans under the emergency decree for assisting citizens, farmers, and entrepreneurs, falls under Article 172. However, for paragraph two of Article 5, which pertains to promoting efficient energy use, the court voted 7:2 that it does not.

Mr. Chuan emphasized the importance of the Constitutional Court as a national pillar and urged the judges to uphold their principles despite the changing judicial structure due to political interference. He expressed concern over the appointment of the Director-General of the Department of Highways as a Constitutional Court judge, a departure from the previous practice of appointing lawyers and administrators. While acknowledging the capabilities of Mr. Sarawut Songsiwilai, the new appointee, Mr. Chuan implored the judges not to let any debts of gratitude affect their rulings.

He elaborated on the concept of repaying debts of gratitude, drawing a parallel to attending funerals as a form of repayment. Mr. Chuan reiterated his support for the Constitutional Court judges and expressed his desire to see them remain as pillars of the nation despite political pressures. He stressed the significance of adhering to principles to ensure effective governance and warned against the potential consequences of political interference.

Mr. Chuan cited the incidents on August 22nd and 23rd in the three southern border provinces, where 51 violent incidents occurred, as an example of the consequences of violating principles. He criticized the executive branch for overstepping its authority by executing criminals without judicial adjudication, leading to severe damage and loss of life. He underscored the necessity of upholding principles to prevent governance issues and ensure a just and stable society.