Verdict on Jatuporn's qualifications due May 18
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The Constitution Court has scheduled May 18 to hand down the verdict on the qualifications of Pheu Thai MP Jatuporn Promphan following Wednesday's session to launch an inquiry into the case.
Emerging from the session, Jatuporn said the high court had instructed him to submit his closing statement in writing within 15 days.
“Because the case is about the legal issues pertaining to my job qualifications, the high court will not convene a hearing on factual evidence,” he said.
He said he agreed to forego the hearing and did not object to not having an opportunity to address the high court himself.
The Election Commission initiated the judicial review via the office of the House Speaker, contending Jatuporn had no party membership to back up his candidacy for the July general election.
The Constitution Court Thursday convened three inquiries into the qualifications of 10 office holders, including Jatuporn.
Apart from Jatuporn’s case, the court is also considering cases against Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva and Democrat MP Warong Dechgitvikrom.
The two have been charged with meddling with the government’s work in handling last year’s flood, an offence punishable by disqualification from holding a House seat.
Pheu Thai MPs contend that Abhisit and Warong forced the Phitsanulok authorities to divert flood relief supplies to the Democrats for distribution to local residents.
The final case involves Justice Minister Pracha Promnok and six Pheu Thai MPs charged with interfering with the flood relief operations, also punishable by disqualification from holding office.
The Democrats have sought the disqualification of the seven in connection with the last year’s censure debate on the flooding.
Pracha has been charged with wrongful delegation of power in connection with the distribution of flood relief supplies.
The six Pheu Thai MPs, Karun Hosakul, Surachart Thienthong, Warachai Hama, Vicharn Minchainant, Charupong Ruangsuwan and Jirayu Huangsub, are charged with meddling with the flood relief supplies.
