Bangkok: Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has refrained from indicating whether he will veto the Medical Council’s resolution, citing the need for further information before making a decision. He noted that there are still 15 days left to consider the matter thoroughly.
According to Thai News Agency, Minister Somsak visited the Ministry of Public Health to monitor the Special President’s Opinion Subcommittee’s meeting under Section 25 of the Medical Profession Act B.E. 2525. The subcommittee, composed of 10 members, convened for their first meeting today. Somsak chose not to attend the meeting, allowing the committee to operate independently. He reported that the committee has requested additional information from the Medical Council, which has yet to be received, resulting in no substantial progress. The requested documents pertain to the evaluation of a doctor’s ethics in treating Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra. Four committees have previously examined the process, including the Special Medical Profession Ethics Subcommittee and several others, totaling 70 members. Upon receiving all documents, the subcommittee will use them alongside meeting discussions to decide on a potential suspension.
Somsak emphasized the committee’s need for time to review the extensive documentation, which exceeds 4,000 pages, and reach a conclusion within the 15-day period due to public interest in the matter. He expressed personal curiosity about the final decision.
When questioned about potential pressure from differing opinions, Somsak remarked that others likely face more pressure than he does, given his non-interference with the committee’s work. Regarding any directives from the Prime Minister, Somsak stated that no instructions had been given, as he could not provide answers without complete information.
At 1:00 p.m., the 10-member Special President’s Advisory Committee arrived at the Ministry’s Office of the Permanent Secretary for their inaugural meeting. They indicated plans for a press conference following their discussions.