Bangkok:Parit Wacharasindhu, a list MP and deputy leader of the People's Party, has defended the allocation of five days for an interpellation session involving 18 ministers, emphasizing its appropriateness given the circumstances.
According to Thai News Agency, Parit, who also serves as chairman of the coordinating committee of the opposition parties in the House of Representatives, explained that the preparations for the no-confidence debate have been ongoing for some time. He argued that due to the involvement of 18 ministers, a five-day debate is necessary for thorough discussion and clarification. The final decision, however, will be made by the Speaker of the House, in collaboration with discussions between the opposition whip and the government.
Parit pointed out that previous no-confidence debates during General Prayut Chan-o-cha's government, which targeted fewer ministers, allocated four full days. Thus, he believes that requesting five days for the current debate is justified and that reducing it to three days would be unreasonable based on past standards.
Addressing the absence of Pheu Thai Party ministers from the interpellation, Parit stated that the People's Party's decision was based on evidence of ministerial performance rather than party affiliation. If evidence of misconduct is found, any minister would be included in the no-confidence motion, regardless of their party or candidacy status. This decision to include all 18 ministers in the debate was made collectively by the opposition parties, and Parit denied any secret deals between the "Orange-Blue-Red" factions.