7-7-2023 (BANGKOK) In an unexpected turn of events, a number of senators have reversed their decision to vote for Pita Limjaroenrat, the leader of the Move Forward Party (MFP), as the country’s next prime minister. Their change of heart stems from concerns over the MFP’s policies, particularly their proposed amendment to the lese majeste law and a potential shift in foreign policy.
Despite previously pledging their support for Limjaroenrat, these senators have now voiced apprehension due to the MFP’s stance on altering Section 112 of the Criminal Code, commonly known as the lese majeste law. The MFP has made it clear that they intend to push for an amendment.
Senator Prapan Koonmee stated, “One of the main reasons… is that he is seeking to amend Section 112 as well as reform the monarchy. The MFP’s stance on foreign policy also poses a danger to the country.”
Concerns have been raised about potential changes in Thailand’s foreign policy under a Limjaroenrat administration. Koonmee added, “Thailand is a friend to every country. If Mr. Pita comes to power, foreign policy will be changed in a way that leans towards a particular superpower.”
Furthermore, there have been complaints questioning Limjaroenrat’s eligibility for office, citing his former shareholding in iTV Plc.
Additionally, the MFP has faced accusations of attempting to undermine the constitutional monarchy. Lawyer Theerayut Suwankesorn filed a petition with the Office of the Attorney-General, claiming that the MFP’s policy on Section 112 violates Section 49 of the constitution.
Sources within parliament indicate that 24 senators were surveyed regarding their support for Limjaroenrat in the upcoming joint sitting of parliament scheduled for July 13. Of these, 14 senators had previously declared their intention to vote for him.
As of Thursday, eight senators cited concerns over the proposed amendment to Section 112 as their reason for withdrawing support. Meanwhile, five senators indicated they would still vote for Limjaroenrat in line with the majority decision of the House.
Nine senators expressed their intention to decide on the day of the vote, while two declined to comment, according to the sources.
Senator Weerasak Futrakul expressed his desire to thoroughly consider whether the MFP’s policies are in the best interests of the country before making a decision. Similarly, AVC Chalermchai Krea-ngam stated that national interest and security would be his primary considerations.
Senator Chalermchai Fuengkhon, who had previously announced support for Limjaroenrat, changed his stance due to concerns surrounding Section 112. However, he did mention that if Limjaroenrat abandoned the proposed amendment, he would be willing to vote in his favor.
Furthermore, representatives of the MFP approached senators to discuss their support for Limjaroenrat, but most senators indicated that they would make their decision shortly before the July 13 vote.
Senator Songdet Samueakham confirmed his intention to vote for Limjaroenrat but acknowledged that it was unlikely for him to garner sufficient support to become the next prime minister.
“Mr. Pita should step forward and declare that he will leave Section 112 alone. This is the only way for him to become prime minister,” stated Samueakham.
The joint sitting of Members of Parliament and senators is scheduled to convene on July 13 for this crucial vote.
According to the constitution, the 250 senators appointed by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), which orchestrated the previous coup, are allowed to participate in the election of the prime minister alongside the Members of Parliament.
This will be the last opportunity for these senators to co-elect a prime minister, as their five-year transitional term, stipulated by the charter after the 2019 election, concludes in May next year.
