Senate rejects Constitutional Court nominations in Thailand

The Senate has turned down two candidates for the Constitutional Court. The rejections came after a controversial debate over their qualifications. Siripan Noksuan Sawasdi, a political scientist, and Chatri Atjananont, a former government official, did not receive enough votes. Siripan was criticized for supporting an amendment to the lese majeste law, which protects royal dignity. She received 43 votes in favor and 136 against, with seven abstentions. Chatri fared slightly better with 47 votes for, but still lost with 115 against and 22 abstentions. The two candidates were nominated to replace outgoing judges Nakharin Mektrairat and Panya Udchanon. Their nominations came from a committee that included prominent officials. During the Senate debate, some members argued to delay the vote due to ongoing investigations into allegations of election rigging. They were concerned that any approved candidates could be disqualified later. However, many senators insisted that the vote had to continue. Senate Speaker Mongkol Surasajja led the voting after a closed-door session, leading to the rejection of both candidates. Reports suggest that many senators aligned with the Bhumjaithai Party did not support either candidate. Siripan's support for a petition to amend the lese majeste law and Chatri's lack of backing from the party contributed to their downfall.