Bangkok: "Witthaya" has decided to delay the expulsion of 18 MPs from the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party until the dissolution of parliament, signaling a strategic pause in internal party conflicts.
According to Thai News Agency, Witthaya Kaewparadai, MP for the party list and deputy leader of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, expressed his stance on potential cabinet reshuffles and internal party dynamics. He emphasized that the Phalang Pracharath Party would not seek changes if the Prime Minister initiates a cabinet reshuffle, and key figures such as Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Ekkana Thongtala, and Suchart Chomklin are expected to retain their positions.
Witthaya addressed the media, asserting his readiness to join the opposition if necessary, particularly if the Ministry of Energy changes leadership. He highlighted that he had inquired about potential reshuffles with the party leader, yet no definitive plans had been communicated by the Prime Minister.
Amidst comments from the Prime Minister and Pheu Thai Party leaders advising the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party to resolve its internal issues, Witthaya reiterated the party's unchanged stance regarding ministerial positions. Despite questions regarding potential divisions within the party, he pointed out that such issues are typical and emphasized the importance of unity until the dissolution of parliament.
Witthaya also responded to speculation about an outsider potentially assuming the role of Minister of Energy. He expressed skepticism about such changes, emphasizing the current positioning of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party within the government.
In light of discussions around the possibility of the core party requesting the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party to relinquish its ministerial positions to an outsider, Witthaya mentioned that any such decision would need to involve discussions with the party leader and secretary. He criticized the notion of replacing ministers without thorough consultation as shallow politics.
Addressing legal possibilities, Witthaya acknowledged that the Prime Minister could legally alter the ministerial list before submitting it to the monarchy, but viewed this as an indication that the Prime Minister no longer desired the party's presence in government.
Finally, he referenced Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, who similarly expressed readiness to join the opposition if ministerial changes occurred. Witthaya concluded that the Prime Minister is unlikely to implement significant changes amidst current national challenges.