Analyst: Telecom schism stalls agenda

A Thai telecom and regulatory law analyst has called on the government to step in and resolve internal disputes within the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). The analyst argues that a lack of unity among commissioners is paralyzing critical national digital agendas.

According to the analyst, who spoke anonymously, the government can legally compel the NBTC to align its operations with state policy. Citing Section 74 of the NBTC Act and the Digital Economy Act, the analyst stated that the government has the authority to ensure the regulator's management of national resources, such as frequencies, supports cabinet policies. This intervention, the analyst believes, would enable the NBTC to effectively drive the government's digital economy objectives.

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Despite its status as an independent regulator, the NBTC is legally bound to align its operations with state policy for the public interest.

The NBTC board recently approved a draft of the third Digital TV master plan, a move that had been pending for two years. However, the commission's leadership has been hampered by internal strife and a series of lawsuits involving commissioners, including the chairman, Dr. Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck. This disunity has reportedly caused significant delays in broadcasting and telecommunications policy management over the past four years.

Allegations against Dr. Sarana's qualifications have further complicated matters. A fact-finding report submitted to the NBTC selection committee questioned his eligibility, citing provisions that prohibit individuals who have recently served as directors or executives of broadcasting or telecom entities. The report noted that Ramathibodi Hospital, where Dr. Sarana held an executive post and which holds an NBTC license, could disqualify him. Further allegations involve violations of rules regarding state officials and full-time service for commissioners.

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He said government intervention would ensure the regulator functions as a driver of the government's digital economy goals.