Bangkok: Paetongtarn Faces Opposition No-Confidence Vote
Bangkok—Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is preparing for a marathon no-confidence debate scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. This political showdown will test her government’s resilience and the ruling coalition’s unity. The debate, extending late into the night, has already sparked controversy over its timing and the opposition’s issues.
The parliamentary timetable allocates 28 hours for opposition parties to question the prime minister, followed by seven hours for the government and cabinet to respond. An additional two hours are reserved for the House Speaker and deputies to manage proceedings. This schedule, proposed by the government whip, will extend the first day’s session until 5:30 a. m. Tuesday—a duration Prime Minister Paetongtarn admits she may not be able to endure entirely. She plans to return home to prepare for the second day’s intense questioning.
The debate centers on accusations of weak leadership and undue influence from Ms. Paetongtarn’s father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, a highly divisive figure in Thai politics. While his shadow looms large, his name has been strategically omitted from the official motion, replaced by the more ambiguous term “a family member.” This tactical maneuver by the opposition, led by People’s Party (PP) leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, broadens the discussion to include individuals connected to the prime minister’s family, expanding the debate’s scope.
Mr. Ruengpanyawut frames the debate as a clash between family interests and national priorities, alleging the government prioritizes the Shinawatra family over the country’s welfare. He hints at undisclosed information, suggesting the debate will unearth “in-depth information never disclosed to the press.” While acknowledging this may not directly oust the prime minister, he believes it could lay the groundwork for future legal action, potentially leading to her removal.
Further fueling the debate, the opposition alludes to “secret deals” during the government’s tenure, including one potentially related to Thaksin Shinawatra’s release. The prime minister categorically denies these allegations, dismissing them as attempts to sensationalize the debate. She expresses confidence in the coalition’s solidity and their unwavering support.
However, the opposition criticizes Ms. Paetongtarn’s planned early departure from the first day, especially given the late-night schedule was proposed by the government’s own whip. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, deputy leader of the PP, criticizes this move, highlighting the optics of the prime minister leaving while other parliamentary officials remain on duty. He also criticizes the Pheu Thai Party’s decision to deploy 20 MPs to ensure opposition compliance with parliamentary rules, arguing this undermines the prime minister’s leadership.
This no-confidence debate arrives at a crucial juncture in Thai politics. With numerous complex issues facing the nation, the outcome will not only test Ms. Paetongtarn’s leadership but also potentially reshape Thailand’s political landscape. The coming days will reveal whether the prime minister can navigate this challenging political terrain and maintain her government’s stability.
