PM Anutin seeks royal order to remove embattled NBTC chief

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has submitted a request for a royal order to dismiss National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck from his position and the NBTC. The prime minister stated that his decision to sign the request is in line with the law and due process, and that it was based on opinions from the government and individuals.

Anutin emphasized that the request was taken in accordance with the procedure and not out of any ill intent. He also dismissed concerns that the move could create a vacuum in NBTC's operations, noting that other commissioners were still in place and could continue their duties. The NBTC is an independent regulatory body, and the government has no authority to interfere with its operations, Anutin said.

A legal expert cautioned that the qualification controversy surrounding the NBTC chairman could become a contentious issue for the prime minister, as the legality of the NBTC selection committee's resolution remains unclear. The Central Administrative Court dismissed Sarana's petition against the committee's resolution last week, stating that there was no legally actionable injury for Sarana to pursue a lawsuit.