Doctors slam veto of MCT

Network urges removal of Somsak

- AEKARACH SATTABURUTH

A network of doctors has slammed Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin’s veto of the Medical Council of Thailand's (MCT) disciplinary action against three doctors involved in former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s hospital transfer.

The network is set to launch a signature-gathering campaign to remove Mr Somsak from office.

Mr Somsak, in his capacity as a special president of the MCT, has issued a formal veto against a resolution by the MCT to impose disciplinary action against three doctors involved in the transfer of Thaksin from the Medical Correctional Institute to the Police General Hospital.

According to sources, Mr Somsak sent the official veto letter to the MCT on Wednesday, effectively halting the council’s decision to penalise the physicians in question.

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra told the media that there was a “leak” from the Medical Council's Line group, showing some council members scolding him.

“Thaksin must face legal consequences to learn a lesson; otherwise, he might believe he can do anything without accountability. I once had faith in him, but as various revelations surfaced, I lost all trust. I no longer believe in him, his family, or his political circle —I have completely lost confidence in all of them,” one member said.

Mr Somsak’s veto prompted the MCT to call a crucial meeting of all board members.

ACM Ittaporn Kanacharoen, the council secretary-general, has set June 12 as the date for the board members to convene following the veto by the minister, who acts as the special president.