Bangkok: "Santhiya" has formally submitted a request to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate allegations against Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, concerning potential constitutional violations and unethical conduct.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Sonthiya Sawasdee, who initiated the petition, highlighted two primary concerns involving Mr. Pirapan. The first issue relates to Mr. Pirapan's references to the DNA of Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, a privy councilor, which may infringe upon Section 12 of the Constitution. This section prohibits privy councilors from participating in political activities. Mr. Sonthiya expressed discomfort over repeated mentions of Gen. Prayut's name in political contexts, stressing that such actions could potentially contravene constitutional stipulations.
The second concern involves Mr. Pirapan's alleged involvement in three companies where he reportedly holds significant shares. Mr. Sonthiya submitted documents indicating that Mr. Pirapan might have retained his role as an executive director in these companies even after assuming his ministerial position on September 2, 2023. This situation, if verified, could violate Sections 170(4), 160(5), and 179(9) of the Constitution, which mandate resignation from executive roles in private enterprises before taking up a governmental position.
Mr. Sonthiya emphasized that if the NACC's investigation confirms Mr. Pirapan's failure to resign from these corporate positions, it would constitute a severe ethical breach under Section 219 of the Constitution. The NACC's decision on this matter is eagerly awaited as it could have significant implications for Mr. Pirapan's political career and adherence to constitutional ethics.