8-7-2023 (BANGKOK) The Move Forward Party (MFP) is confident that its leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, will gather sufficient support from senators to secure the position of Thailand’s new prime minister in the upcoming crucial vote on Thursday.
Addressing concerns raised by some senators about the MFP’s policies, particularly their proposed amendment of the lese majeste law, MFP secretary-general Chaithawat Tulathon dismissed the remarks on Friday.
Despite a shift in the stance of certain senators who had previously pledged their votes in favor of Pita, due to the party’s position on changing Section 112 of the Criminal Code, Mr. Chaithawat expressed optimism. He noted that these concerns represent only the opinions of some senators, while the majority of senators have yet to voice their stance on the matter.
Mr. Chaithawat also expressed confidence that discussions between the MFP and senators would yield a positive outcome, as most senators desire progress and advancement for the country.
According to the constitution, the 250 appointed senators are eligible to participate in the vote alongside the 500 elected members of the House of Representatives.
To secure the position of prime minister, a candidate must garner the support of at least half of the 750 members in both the lower and upper chambers of parliament, totaling 376 votes.
Reportedly, the eight coalition parties have already secured 312 votes in support of Pita, and they now require an additional 64 votes from senators or other members of parliament to reach the necessary threshold.
When asked if the MFP would reconsider its attempt to amend Section 112, Mr. Chaithawat stated that the party could address the senators’ concerns.
He also indicated his intention to approach House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha to inquire about the possibility of a prime ministerial candidate outlining their vision prior to the parliamentary vote. Additionally, he questioned whether members of parliament should be allowed to question the candidate before reaching their decision.
In the event that Pita fails to secure victory in the initial round of voting on July 13, Mr. Chaithawat stated that the MFP would nominate him again for a subsequent vote on July 19.
House Speaker Wan previously mentioned that if Pita fails to garner the required votes to become Thailand’s next prime minister during the House session scheduled for next Thursday, a second round of voting is likely to be held on July 19. However, Mr. Chaithawat expressed confidence that Pita would emerge as the new prime minister after the first round of voting.
“We may celebrate Mr. Pita’s election as the new prime minister on the evening of July 13,” Mr. Chaithawat remarked.
However, he cautioned that if the process of electing a new premier extends over multiple rounds, it would delay the formation of a new government. This delay could also impact deliberations on the 2024 fiscal budget and the overall economy. Mr. Chaithawat emphasized the importance of completing the process promptly to stabilize Thai politics.
When asked if the MFP would support a prime ministerial candidate from the Pheu Thai party if Pita’s bid fails, Mr. Chaithawat maintained that Pita is the sole nominee among the eight coalition parties.
On Friday, the MFP’s deputy leader, Sirikanya Tansakun, claimed that the party had garnered enough support from senators to back Pita’s candidacy for prime minister. However, she acknowledged the need for a contingency plan in case some senators have a change of heart, as the outcome of the voting remains uncertain.
Deputy Pheu Thai leader Phumtham Wechayachai affirmed on Friday that the eight coalition parties would remain united and support Pita’s bid for prime minister.
Meanwhile, Senator Prapasri Suchantabutr reiterated on Friday that she would vote for Pita to become the next prime minister based on his party’s majority in the May 14 election.
