11-8-2023 (BANGKOK) Pita Limjaroenrat, the esteemed leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP), has put forward his belief that his renomination as a contender for the prime ministerial position could have been achieved within the parliamentary arena, without necessitating a court intervention.
The course of events took an unexpected turn when Pita’s renomination faced rejection during a joint session of Members of Parliament (MPs) and Senators on July 19. The rejection was based on an existing House regulation which stipulates that a previously dismissed motion cannot be resubmitted during the same parliamentary session, unless the context or conditions surrounding the prime ministerial bid have undergone a transformation.
The rationale behind this rejection stemmed from the fact that Pita Limjaroenrat, as the sole nominee for the coveted role, failed to amass the requisite majority in a pivotal meeting held on July 13. Advocates of this stance argue that adherence to the rule is paramount.
In a counterpoint to the rejection, Pita’s supporters counterargued that the House regulation did not find relevance within the prime ministerial selection process. As a response, they channelled the issue towards the Constitutional Court, seeking a decisive ruling via the Office of Ombudsman.
When confronted with inquiries about the ongoing court deliberations, Pita Limjaroenrat confidently maintained his eligibility for renomination as per the established House regulations. In his view, a court verdict should not dictate the prospect of his candidature.
Nevertheless, Pita acknowledged that the present juncture was not conducive for a renomination attempt. The Move Forward Party had strategically receded, allowing the Pheu Thai party to seize the mantle in orchestrating the formation of a coalition government.
However, Pita did not shy away from contemplating his aspirations within the realm of governance. Expressing his aspirations, he conveyed a fervent hope for an eventual opportunity to partake in governmental affairs.
“If our nation seeks to empower a new generation of leaders, I stand prepared. I have diligently readied myself for this responsibility, with an ardent desire to illustrate the boundless potential that our country can ascend to,” Pita asserted.
Radiating optimism, Pita Limjaroenrat extolled the MFP’s performance as an opposition party and passionately proclaimed that their capabilities could extend further when entrusted with the mantle of governance.
“As an entity that has already impressed as an opposition, we hold the potential to deliver even greater feats while spearheading the government’s agenda,” he affirmed with unwavering determination.
