Thai Parliament Speaker Wants Thaksin's Name Dropped from Debate

[webfact]

File photo courtesy of Thairath

 

In a recent twist within Thailand's political arena, House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has requested that the opposition omit former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's name from a no-confidence motion aimed at Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter.

 

The decision to seek Thaksin’s removal stems from parliamentary regulation No 176, which prohibits mentioning outsiders in debates without substantial reason. Mr. Wan emphasised that including Thaksin, who does not hold a position in the current administration, would breach these guidelines and risk defamation lawsuits, as Thaksin is unable to defend himself in parliament.

 

Yet, the opposition, led by the People's Party, remains unwavering. Parit Wacharasindhu, an opposition spokesman, argues that regulation No 176 does not compel them to revise a motion unless procedural errors are identified. According to Mr. Parit, such amendments are also time-barred, given that the motion was lodged over a week ago, after which changes aren't permitted.

 

Mr. Parit further contends that parliamentary rules allow third-party references when relevant to national governance issues. He maintains that Thaksin’s public acknowledgments of his influence over government affairs make his inclusion reasonable. The no-confidence motion accuses Thaksin of wielding undue influence over his daughter’s administration, an allegation the opposition considers essential to the debate.

The government, seeking to limit the debate to a single day — a stance opposed by the opposition, which is calling for five days — is preparing for the upcoming parliamentary showdown. The opposition warns that confining the debate risks glossing over serious governance concerns.

 

Prime Minister's Office Minister Chousak Sirinil voiced apprehensions that the focus could shift from the premier to include attacks on cabinet ministers. In contrast, PP deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakul insists the opposition has adhered to legislative privileges, arguing that Thaksin’s influence on national matters is pertinent to discussions.

 

As tensions simmer, the stakes remain high. With accusations flying and legislative interpretations challenged, the political landscape stands on the brink of a heated debate set to commence at month-end.

 

Opposition figures encourage the government to remain composed, while they brace for potential legal repercussions from mentioning a third party. The debate promises to be a critical test for parliamentary decorum and political accountability in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-03-10

 

 

[Geoffggi]

As slippery as ever, it is about time his wings were clipped as he is making a mockery of the whole government sense of diplomacy 

[ikke1959]

THis man is the cause of all problems simce he came back from Dubai.. Why should he be dropped from the debate.. He is not even an MP so why is he acting as the PM... 

[MikeandDow]

The man should be in Jail

[watchcat]

23 minutes ago, MikeandDow said:

The man should be in Jail

 

He will not go voluntarily , a straitjacket will be needed.

[JoePai]

Thaksin should be dropped from a great height - head first   

[dinsdale]

You're the opposition but I'm going to tell you what to do. The sheer arrogance of it is amazing being that they're the true opposition which is what the voting public of Thailand voted for. The democratically elected government is in opposition because of corruption and will most definitely not drop Thaksin's name. Well I hope not. 

[ikke1959]

Again an example that old dinosaurs are not helping the country, don't want change and are so conservative and under influence of the  army and elite.....This man is incapable of doing his job... remove him too