Bangkok: "Teng" remains unfazed by the potential threat of a lawsuit concerning any debate references to "Thaksin," viewing it as a governmental issue following the Prime Minister's request for talks with the Pheu Thai-coalition parties about constitutional amendments. He expresses confidence in the protective privileges he holds.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, an MP for the party list and leader of the Prachachon Party, as well as the opposition leader, discussed the upcoming joint parliamentary session scheduled for February 13-14, 2025. During this session, Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra is expected to engage in discussions within the Pheu Thai Party before extending these talks to the coalition parties. Mr. Nattapong emphasized that these inter-party discussions are primarily the government's responsibility. He mentioned that while some individuals outside the Cabinet might participate in parliamentary answers, the no-confidence debate should be anticipated, with the Prime Minister and ministers providing direct responses.
Mr. Nattapong appealed to the Prime Minister, highlighting her crucial role as the head of government with the authority to dissolve parliament. He stressed that constitutional amendments are a coalition policy and that the Prime Minister's leadership is pivotal. He noted that if there is pressure on the coalition parties to sign off on the draft constitution amendments, it should be a Cabinet decision rather than a political party's. He expressed no worries about a Constitutional Court interpretation, asserting his honest fulfillment of MP duties.
Regarding government warnings of possible lawsuits for referencing outsiders like former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Mr. Nattapong reiterated his lack of concern, citing parliamentary privilege as a safeguard. He assured that the People's Party is fully prepared for the no-confidence debate, having assembled a comprehensive debate team and awaiting the allocation of time. He affirmed the party's readiness to engage vigorously in the upcoming motion.