PM to use Section 44 to name new GLO boss

PM to use Section 44 to name new GLO boss

Officials pick the lucky numbers for the lottery's top prizes at the new office of the GLO on April 16, 2015. (Photo by Tawatchai Kemgumnerd)
Officials pick the lucky numbers for the lottery's top prizes at the new office of the GLO on April 16, 2015. (Photo by Tawatchai Kemgumnerd)

Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Sunday said he will use his power under Section 44 to appoint a "trusted person" as new chairman of the Government Lottery Office in a continuing effort to cap lottery prices.

Gen Prayut told reporters he had made the decision after being asked whether he would use Section 44 to appoint an outsider as new GLO board chairman or use exisitng selection regulations. 

“Under normal regulations there would be a selection, but I will use the special powers, which will see a trusted person appointed to the job,” Gen Prayut said. “I confirm this will not affect the addressing of the issue of overpriced lottery tickets.” 

He said if the new board chairman appointed by him fails to tackle the problem, that person will also be replaced.    

On Friday, Customs Department director-general Somchai Satjapong submitted his resignation as GLO chairman to allow someone else to handle the pricing issue, citing his failure to control vendors. His resignation took effect Sunday.

Gen Prayut said he personally knew Mr Somchai and had talked to him after his resignation. He confirmed there was no conflict between him and Mr Somchai. 

The GLO board headed by Mr Somchai was appointed on June 28 last year on the order of Gen Prayut as chair of the National Council for Peace and Order. The problem of overpriced lottery tickets was among the NCPO’s top priorities. 

The standard fee for a lottery ticket is 80 baht a pair, but buyers are normally charged from 90-120 baht.

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