Bangkok PM Defends Herself Against No-Confidence Vote
Bangkok—Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces a grueling no-confidence debate scheduled for Monday and Tuesday. Acknowledging the demanding schedule—expected to stretch until 5:30 a. m. on Tuesday—she has expressed concerns about remaining in the chamber for its entirety, citing the need for rest before the second day. Opposition figures have seized upon this as a sign of weakness.
The debate, fueled by allegations of backroom deals and prioritizing family interests over national concerns, is a focal point of political tension in Thailand. Opposition parties, allocated 28 hours to question the Prime Minister, are focusing on perceived undue influence from the Shinawatra family. This follows the removal of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s name from the censure motion, replaced with the broader term “a family member.” While Ms. Paetongtarn dismissed claims of secret deals related to her father’s release, the opposition maintains these allegations will be central to their arguments.
The allocation of debate time underscores the high stakes: the government and cabinet have seven hours to respond to the opposition’s accusations; the House Speaker and deputies have two hours to oversee proceedings. This parliamentary procedure highlights the debate’s significance, impacting not only the Prime Minister’s immediate political future but also the broader landscape of Thai politics.
Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the People’s Party (PP) stated the debate will scrutinize alleged deals within the Pheu Thai Party, suggesting family benefits have been prioritized over national interests. Mr. Ruengpanyawut hinted at unveiling undisclosed information, potentially laying the groundwork for future lawsuits, though he acknowledged it might not suffice for immediate removal from office. This suggests the debate’s ramifications could extend far beyond the two-day session.
Adding to the tension, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, deputy leader of the PP, criticized Ms. Paetongtarn’s planned early departure from the first day, noting the irony of the government whip proposing extended hours while the Prime Minister herself plans to leave. Mr. Lakkhanaadisorn also condemned Pheu Thai’s decision to deploy 20 MPs to monitor opposition compliance with parliamentary rules, arguing this undermines the Prime Minister’s leadership.
The no-confidence motion, submitted on February 27, accuses Ms. Paetongtarn of lacking leadership and allowing her father to exert undue influence within the government. Despite these allegations, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in the coalition’s unity and her ability to address the opposition’s concerns. She stated her readiness to answer all questions and indicated that ministers will respond to queries within their respective portfolios.
This no-confidence debate is a crucial test for the young Prime Minister. The outcome will shape Thailand’s political discourse for the foreseeable future, impacting not only Ms. Paetongtarn’s tenure but also the balance of power within the country’s complex political ecosystem. The nation watches as this pivotal moment in Thai politics unfolds.
