Bangkok: The Senate has unanimously voted to appoint Noppadol Pheriruek as the Secretary-General of the Council of State, amidst heated debates over the transparency of the selection process. Senator Nanthana Nanthavaropas raised concerns about the secrecy surrounding the nominee's qualifications and the closed-door nature of the meetings.

According to Thai News Agency, the Senate's agenda included evaluating a suitable candidate for the Secretary-General position. The Standing Committee on Background Checks, Conduct, and Ethical Conduct had completed its assessment of Mr. Noppadol Pheriruek. However, the committee's report and the nominee's qualifications were discussed in a confidential session, raising questions from Senator Nanthana about potential secrecy and manipulation within the process.

Senator Nanthana criticized the majority's decision to keep the meeting minutes undisclosed, labeling the session as secretive and self-serving. She emphasized the necessity for transparency, independence, fairness, and democracy in the selection of members for independent organizations, including the Secretary-General of the Council of State. In her speech, she questioned whether the majority of senators adhered to these principles and called for a more transparent and public selection process.

The discussion took a contentious turn when Ms. Nanthana referenced a recent leaked video alleging collusion in Senate elections. Her remarks were interrupted by General Kriengkrai Srirak, the meeting chairman, who urged her to remain on topic. Despite this, Ms. Nanthana continued, apologizing if her comments were upsetting but stressing her point on transparency. Her persistence prompted interventions from several senators, leading to her decision to leave the meeting.

Following the debate, Ms. Atcharaphan, a committee member, clarified that the selection adhered to civil service regulations and Thai law. The confidentiality of the qualifications report was due to personal information concerns. Subsequently, the Senate acknowledged the confidential report and proceeded with the vote, resulting in unanimous support for Mr. Noppadol Pheriruek's appointment as Secretary-General of the Council of State.