NACC passes on ministers’ alleged share violations to PM
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) will refrain from scrutinising two government ministers over claims about their shares due its stated lack of authority in the matter.
Instead, the agency has the matter on to Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha.
Industry Minister Uttama Sawanayon and Deputy Commerce Minister Sonthirat Sonthijirawong have been accused by the head of the Pheu Thai Party legal team, Ruangkrai Leekitwatana, of having more shares in private companies than the law allows.
By law, ministers are not allowed to hold more than 5 per cent of shares in a private firm. If anybody wishes to hold a larger stake, their shareholding must be transferred to a legal body that manages personal funds.
Worawit Sukboon, acting secretary-general of the NACC, said yesterday after receiving the complaint that the agency had looked into it and found that it was not within its jurisdiction.
The NACC had transferred the case to Prayut and his secretary-general Vilas Aroonsri for further consideration, he said, adding that all ministers were under the prime minister’s supervision.
The matter had also been sent to the Election Commission, Worawit said.
A source close to the NACC said that although the NACC could not review the case and had to pass it on, the matter could affect the Cabinet reshuffle expected to take place soon.