Bangkok: The decision by the NBTC Selection Committee to vote on the qualifications of Clinical Professor Dr. Saran Boonbaichaiyapruk, Chairman of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), has not led to his removal from office, according to his personal lawyer, Mr. Chamnan Chadith. The lawyer emphasized that the committee's resolution is merely an "opinion" and does not hold the legal authority to remove Dr. Saran from his position.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chamnan refuted reports that the NBTC Selection Committee voted 4-0 regarding Dr. Saran's qualifications, stating that the vote is not conclusive enough to suspend or remove him from duty. He highlighted three critical considerations: the expiration of the Selection Committee's legal authority post-selection process, the need for a legally authorized ruling for removal, and the protection of actions taken by the chairman during his tenure.
Mr. Chamnan underscored that the opinion of the selection committee does not constitute a legal order, and Dr. Saran is obligated to continue his duties until a legally authorized body issues a ruling or takes action. He stressed that actions taken by Dr. Saran as NBTC Chairman will not be invalidated due to the committee's opinion, safeguarding the rights of those who acted in good faith.
The lawyer further explained that the provisions under Section 18 of the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission Act are intended for the selection and appointment process, not for altering the status of an appointed NBTC commissioner. Mr. Chamnan noted that removal from office must follow specific legal procedures as outlined in the law, and the Selection Committee's resolution cannot independently change Dr. Saran's status.
In addition to the legal points, Mr. Chamnan mentioned that Dr. Saran had previously submitted several letters to the Selection Committee, clarifying legal issues and facts, and requested investigations from relevant agencies. Despite this, the committee expedited their resolution without considering the ongoing investigations or Dr. Saran's clarifications. Mr. Chamnan observed that the process lacked administrative fairness and sufficient opportunity for explanation.
Dr. Saran intends to clarify the details to the public, including the timeline of events, explanatory letters, and communications with various agencies, to provide a comprehensive view of the situation. Mr. Chamnan stated that the matter is not merely a personal dispute but involves the rule of law and the continuity of the regulatory body's duties. Dr. Saran is prepared to undergo a lawful and fair investigation, ensuring the facts are fully explained.
The legal implications of the committee's resolution and the NBTC Chairman's term status will be evaluated based on relevant laws and competent organizations' rulings. Meanwhile, the Selection Committee and involved agencies should also have the opportunity to present their facts.