Bangkok PM Defends Record in One-Day No-Confidence Vote
A looming no-confidence debate targeting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ignited a fiery exchange between Thailand’s ruling Pheu Thai Party and the opposition People’s Party (PP). The central point of contention is the debate’s duration: a single day, scheduled for March 24th. The Pheu Thai Party insists this is sufficient, while the PP argues it’s grossly inadequate for properly scrutinizing the prime minister’s performance.
This debate, the first challenge to Ms. Shinawatra since assuming office, follows her parliamentary address last Thursday on the government’s efforts to combat call center scams. This marked her first direct response to a parliamentary query as prime minister, underscoring the upcoming debate’s significance.
Pheu Thai list-MP and chief government whip, Wisut Chainarun, argues that, as Ms. Shinawatra is the sole target of the opposition’s censure motion, one day allows ample time to address issues and conduct a subsequent vote. Mr. Chainarun’s statement, “Cut to the chase. Don’t beat about the bush,” highlights the ruling party’s desire for a swift and focused debate.
However, the PP contends that limiting the debate to a single day stifles crucial scrutiny. Phattharaphong Leelaphat, PP MP for Chiang Mai and party spokesman, questioned whether the prime minister would personally address all questions. He suggested the Pheu Thai Party’s insistence on a short debate stems from a fear of uncomfortable inquiries regarding the influence of Thaksin Shinawatra, Pheu Thai’s de facto leader and Ms. Shinawatra’s father. The opposition suspects the ruling party aims to shield the prime minister from potentially damaging questions about her father’s role.
This suspicion is fueled by the sensitivity surrounding Mr. Shinawatra’s legacy in Thai politics. He served twice as prime minister, his tenure marked by significant achievements and controversy, ultimately ending in his removal from office. His continued influence on Pheu Thai, despite his absence from the country, remains a contentious issue.
Mr. Chainarun dismissed allegations that Pheu Thai seeks to protect the prime minister, stating that Ms. Shinawatra is prepared to answer questions and highlighting her legal right to delegate responses to relevant cabinet ministers. He gave the example of transport policy questions being addressed by the transport minister. He also acknowledged the inevitable mention of Mr. Shinawatra, asserting that Pheu Thai would not attempt to suppress such references. However, he warned against unsubstantiated accusations of manipulation, differentiating between a daughter seeking advice from her father and undue influence over government affairs.
While Mr. Chainarun portrays the one-day debate as efficient and fair, the opposition views it as a calculated maneuver to limit transparency and accountability. This clash sets the stage for a politically charged showdown. The final decision on the debate’s duration rests on a meeting between government, opposition, and Senate whips scheduled for Monday. The outcome will significantly shape Thailand’s political landscape and potentially influence public perception of the prime minister’s ability to navigate complex political challenges. The debate will be a crucial test of Ms. Shinawatra’s leadership and her ability to address concerns regarding transparency and her father’s influence on her administration.
