Bangkok: "Phradon" is actively preparing to rally support from opposition members to gather 99 signatures needed to submit a censure motion against 'Paethongtarn' and certain ministers. The initiative underscores the opposition's quest for accountability within the government.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, an MP for Ang Thong from the Bhumjaithai Party and former 2nd Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, addressed the selection process for the 2nd Deputy Speaker of the House. Rumored to be a quota of the Pheu Thai Party, the appointment decision lies with the Coordinating Committee of the Coalition Parties (Government Whip), which will evaluate the suitability of candidates. The Bhumjaithai Party has declared that the majority party in the House should occupy this position. Meanwhile, the Prachachon Party, due to its opposition leader status, is ineligible for the Deputy Speaker role.
Mr. Paradorn emphasized that the 2nd Deputy Speaker must be chosen by the majority party and should be a person of quality and suitability for the role. He acknowledged ongoing work by Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, the Speaker of the House, and Mr. Pichet Chueamuangphan, the 1st Deputy Speaker, noting the importance of the 2nd Deputy Speaker's duties and the need to continue unfinished tasks assigned by the Speaker.
Mr. Paradorn also highlighted efforts to gather support for a no-confidence motion under Article 151 of the Constitution, which requires 99 votes. He mentioned an upcoming opposition whip meeting scheduled for July 2 at 9:30 a.m. to discuss this matter with other parties. The opposition believes it is time to question the prime minister and certain ministers' performance on various grounds.
Currently, the opposition holds 69 votes, while the Palang Pracharath Party contributes approximately 19 votes, totaling around 90, which is insufficient for the motion. Mr. Paradorn plans to engage with the Prachachon Party and other opposition factions to gather the necessary support. Discussions will focus on identifying information about the Prime Minister and specific ministers to facilitate informed debates during the censure motion process.