Bangkok: Mr. Phrits Wacharasindhu, a member of the Prachachon Party, has called on the acting Prime Minister to dissolve the parliament and initiate new elections, while also urging the government to withdraw the contentious entertainment bill. This move comes in light of the upcoming agenda for the House of Representatives meeting, which is set to open its session tomorrow, and the scheduled discussion of the entertainment complex bill next week.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Phrits expressed concerns about the draft bill on the entertainment complex, which remains a focus of societal scrutiny. Despite the chaos surrounding its introduction, the Cabinet has yet to retract the draft from the agenda. If the government proceeds without withdrawal, the Entertainment Complex Bill will be the first item for deliberation next Wednesday. This prioritization is unusual, as the government previously voted to delay this legislation in April. The Prachachon Party opposes the bill, citing unclear economic benefits, inconsistent economic figures, and insufficient studies on the social impacts such as gambling addiction and money laundering risks.
Mr. Phrits emphasized that if the government genuinely considers public objections, it should retract the draft. However, if the House continues to deliberate it, it will test the government's and public's trust, as the bill represents a core government policy. The administration's control over parliamentary votes, given its narrow majority, is also in question, alongside public opinion on the government's policy direction.
When asked about potential negative effects of pursuing the law, Mr. Phrits highlighted the political responsibility tied to the Cabinet's draft law. Should parliament reject it, this would indicate the government's inability to control its votes, despite claiming the policy as its flagship. He mentioned the need for a stable government with political legitimacy, suggesting that new elections are necessary to establish such governance.
Mr. Phrits further urged the acting Prime Minister to heed the People's Party's call to dissolve parliament, returning power to the electorate. Alternatively, the People's Party plans to collaborate with opposition parties to leverage parliamentary mechanisms, like a no-confidence motion, to prompt new elections. The opposition leaders are set to discuss this strategy, although complications may arise depending on the Constitutional Court's order.
Addressing inquiries about forming a government with opposition parties, Mr. Phrits assured that the People's Party would not join any coalition in the current parliament. He stressed the need for a new government elected by the people to effectively address the country's challenges.
Regarding Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra's suspension from her duties as Prime Minister, yet retaining her role as Minister of Culture, Mr. Phrits noted ongoing legal debates. He questioned her legitimacy to serve, particularly in responding to inquiries about soft power initiatives, which have shown limited results over the past two years. The Prachachon Party remains committed to scrutinizing every executive across ministries.
In response to criticisms from Mr. Jatuporn Promphan of the People's Fusion Group, Mr. Parit clarified that the People's Party employs all parliamentary mechanisms available for oversight, including live questioning and no-confidence debates. He reaffirmed the party's dedication to holding the government accountable, contrasting it with parties that initially presented as opposition but later aligned with the government.
Mr. Parit also addressed allegations regarding the promissory note investigation involving Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn. He emphasized the importance of adhering to ethical standards in pursuing such matters, while questioning the actions of parties that previously supported the Prime Minister.
"I saw Mr. Jatuporn mention our party and seem to be praising another political party. But don't forget that after the debate, that political party also raised their hands for Ms. Paethongtarn to continue as prime minister. So we have to ask the political party that raised their hands for Ms. Paethongtarn that day and the party that is still supporting the Pheu Thai government today, is that better?" Mr. Parit concluded.