Bangkok: Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul has announced a proposal to expel Ekarat Changlao from the party, as the party prepares to contest a by-election in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin revealed this development, emphasizing the party's intent to defend its seat in the region.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin discussed the progress of the party meeting aimed at expelling Ekarat Changlao, a Member of Parliament for Khon Kaen, after Changlao participated in a meeting to establish a branch of the Kla Tham Party in Khon Kaen Province. Anutin indicated that a request for expulsion had been submitted by party members and that it would be up to the party meeting to make a final decision. Details regarding the specific behavior prompting the expulsion were not disclosed, and Anutin noted that the timing of the meeting remained uncertain due to his current focus on addressing earthquake-related issues.
In relation to the upcoming by-election in Nakhon Si Thammarat, necessitated by the disqualification of the Bhumjaithai Party's candidate, Anutin confirmed the party's determination to participate. He has tasked Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, the Minister of Labor responsible for the southern region, with selecting a suitable candidate to contest the seat.
Addressing questions regarding the draft of the Entertainment Complex Business Act, Anutin stated that he was unsure if it would be reviewed by the Bhumjaithai Party meeting before being presented to the House of Representatives. He clarified that the draft, which has received Cabinet approval, has been amended based on feedback from government agencies, and the Ministry of Interior has contributed its views. Once the draft reaches the House of Representatives, it will be subject to parliamentary procedures, including a first reading and committee review.
When queried about opposition to the draft law, Anutin explained that the concerns had been considered during the drafting process and that the current version reflects the conclusions of the Council of State. He expressed confidence in the draft's legal validity, affirming that input from all relevant parties had been taken into account.