Former auditor-general Pisit Leelavachiropas on Friday lashed out at the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) for changing an organic bill on the Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) to prohibit former OAG heads from applying for the post.
The NLA passed its final reading of the bill on Thursday with some revisions. One of these, according to core NLA members, means that former auditor-generals will no longer be eligible to apply for the post when the bill takes effect.
The auditor-general's seat is currently vacant.
Mr Pisit reapplied for the post earlier but his plan appears to have been derailed following the NLA's decision.
Asked if the changes were made to block him from seeking another term, Mr Pisit said he believed that was likely the case. Moreover, he refused to withdraw from the contest and said the matter should be decided by a selection committee.
"I think the public should ask the NLA what the public stands to gain from these changes," he said.
However, he said he would not lodge a petition with the prime minister over the issue.
The former auditor-general said he believes he is qualified to be considered for the post, citing the National Council for Peace and Order's (NCPO) order No.71/2014 that allows a former auditor-general to serve a second term.
"I've studied the NCPO's order carefully and because the order is still in effect, I am qualified to apply," he said. He added that if the changes are royally endorsed he will not counter them.
Jate Siratharanont, a spokesman for the NLA whip, dismissed as untrue criticism that the NLA was determined to block Mr Pisit.
Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC) chairman Meechai Ruchupan said the CDC must review the content of the bill before making a decision.
Mr Meechai also played down the controversy over the issue, saying the constitution clearly states what qualifications an auditor-general must posses.
"There may be further debate on this issue but the CDC won't get involved," he said.
The 114-section organic bill was passed with 170 votes in favour and four abstentions.
The key point involves Section 7, which allows the OAG to step in and examine the National Anti-Corruption Commission's budget spending.
Under the bill, if any NACC staff are suspected of misspending the budget, the anti-corruption commissioners must be informed.
The auditor can initiate a probe into NACC staff as long as it proceeds along NACC guidelines, and the NACC can abort the probe if it hinders its work.
