Bangkok: The opposition leader, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, avoided answering questions regarding the name change in the recent motion and directed criticism at former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Mr. Nattapong mocked Mr. Thaksin, suggesting that any annoyance he might feel towards the People's Party was self-inflicted and not the result of external influences. He emphasized the need for Mr. Thaksin to be included in the no-confidence debate, criticizing the Pheu Thai Party for its inability to make independent decisions without consulting those truly in power.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong, leader of the Prachachon Party and the opposition in the House of Representatives, addressed the inclusion of Mr. Thaksin in the no-confidence motion. He questioned the rationale behind the nomination by the Prachachon Party and whether it aligned with the values of a new generation party. Mr. Nattapong highlighted Mr. Thaksin's own admissions of involvement in national administration, arguing that public figures with access to state power must be subject to legislative scrutiny.
Mr. Nattapong asserted that the inclusion of Mr. Thaksin's name in the motion was due to Mr. Thaksin's own actions. He insisted that the former prime minister should be examined by the legislature, especially concerning the influence he allegedly exerts over the current prime minister. Mr. Nattapong stated, "The reason we included Thaksin's name in the motion was not caused by anyone. It was caused by Thaksin himself."
When asked about Mr. Thaksin's reaction and his use of the term "annoying," Mr. Nattapong expressed that he could not predict Mr. Thaksin's feelings but referenced Mr. Thaksin's warning about the risks of losing another party. Mr. Nattapong remarked on the irony of Mr. Thaksin's comments, given his past experiences with party dissolution and loss of political rights.
Mr. Nattapong addressed concerns about the urgency of the opposition's actions, stating that it is not too late for checks and balances. He criticized the government for not sending a decision-maker to negotiate with the whips, recounting an incident where government whip Mr. Wisut Chainarun admitted a lack of decision-making authority.
In response to questions about possible influences behind government decisions, Mr. Nattapong refrained from speculating on who Mr. Wisut referred to. He emphasized the importance of allowing the opposition to perform its duty of scrutiny without interference.
Mr. Nattapong also addressed Mr. Thaksin's suggestion to consult the founders of the Future Forward Party, asserting his independence in decision-making. He pointed out that the Pheu Thai Party had not yet sent representatives with real authority to engage in negotiations.
Regarding the debate time formula, Mr. Nattapong indicated openness to discussing a flexible approach. However, he stressed that a fixed timeframe of approximately 30 hours would be insufficient for a comprehensive debate.
Mr. Nattapong concluded by addressing questions about the formal language used in motions and the need for the government to be prepared for the opposition's inquiries, expressing confidence in the Prachachon Party's preparedness.