Bangkok: Chonlanan has raised concerns about the minority government’s detrimental effect on democratic principles. He has requested a postponement of the prime ministerial vote after MPs submitted a petition to the House Speaker, urging the Constitutional Court to interpret whether the signing of the MoA by the People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) and the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) constitutes undue influence. Chonlanan emphasizes that the minority government is eroding democratic values.
According to Thai News Agency, the House of Representatives convened to consider the approval of a nominee for Prime Minister in accordance with Section 159 of the Constitution. The candidates include Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, party-list MP and leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, and Mr. Chaikasem Nitisiri from the Pheu Thai Party. During the meeting, members discussed the qualifications and suitability of the nominees, with each party allocated one hour for debate.
Dr. Cholanat Srikaew, representing Nan Province from the Pheu Thai Party, highlighted the agreement between the Prachachon Party and the Bhumjaithai Party, which involves a joint MoA of five announcements. Dr. Cholanat identified two main concerns: the prohibited characteristics of individuals entering the position and the process by which the nominee is presented. He stressed the importance of the latter, as it directly pertains to the House of Representatives. Dr. Cholanat outlined three critical issues: violations of democratic principles, constitutional breaches, and legal transgressions.
The agreement between the People’s Party and the Bhumjaithai Party to form a minority government stipulates that the People’s Party will not join the government or share ministerial positions, and the Bhumjaithai Party must not join the majority unless there are 146 votes. Dr. Cholanat argued that while a minority government is possible, the principle of majority rule respecting the minority is being compromised. He questioned the integrity of a coalition that creates minority rule and expressed doubts about its ability to maintain trust and control.
Dr. Cholanat further noted the significant votes received by the People’s Party and Bhumjaithai Party, emphasizing that forming a government with such an arrangement violates democratic principles. He expressed concern that this approach undermines the parliamentary democratic system and highlighted the importance of adhering to constitutional and legal processes in selecting a prime minister.
Dr. Cholanat also pointed out that at least one-tenth of over 50 MPs have signed a petition to the House Speaker, requesting the Constitutional Court’s intervention regarding the approval process. He questioned the motives behind the MoA, suggesting potential conflicts of interest. Dr. Cholanat stressed the importance of the Constitutional Court’s decision and urged the Speaker to consider the matter carefully. He suggested suspending the election process until the court’s ruling is finalized, ensuring the process aligns with democratic principles and constitutional guidelines.