Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul has emphasized the importance of integrity and honesty in the formation of the new cabinet, declaring that ministers must be free from any wrongdoing and must not act against national interests or societal expectations. He highlighted that these principles align with the Constitutional Court's precedent set in the cases of Phumtham and Thawee.
According to Thai News Agency, following Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's appointment as the Minister of Interior and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, the new cabinet, referred to as Anutin 2/1, will be subject to stricter standards. The emphasis on more rigorous criteria is grounded in the court ruling regarding the cases of Phumtham Wechayachai, former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, and Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong, former Minister of Justice, concerning interference in the Senate election. The ruling, which affirmed the continuation of the respondents' ministerial positions, serves as a framework for the new cabinet appointments and was officially recorded in the Royal Gazette on February 19th.
The Constitutional Court has enshrined essential principles in Section 160 (4), mandating that ministers demonstrate honesty and sincerity. This entails behaving truthfully, not committing acts of treachery, and maintaining integrity by adhering to right and just conduct. In this context, demonstrating integrity means refraining from behavior that lacks integrity or is inconsistent with ministerial duties, thereby safeguarding national interests and public trust.
The focus on integrity does not require explicit virtuous conduct but insists on the absence of behavior that contradicts societal expectations. This standard ensures that ministers do not engage in dishonest conduct or manipulation for undue benefits. Anutin's outlined principles thus reflect a commitment to maintaining high standards of governance and public service.