Bangkok: "Natthaphong" reiterates that the opposition's content has solid information, still giving the PM a chance to explain. Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, MP for the party list and leader of the Prachachon Party, as the leader of the opposition, addressed the censure debate on its second day. This comes after coalition parties criticized the debate for being bland and repetitive. Nattapong emphasized the robustness of the opposition's arguments, highlighting unresolved issues awaiting Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra's clarification. One significant issue raised was the Prime Minister's connection to the Thames Valley Khao Yai Hotel, an area ripe for explanation.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Natthaphong pointed out additional unresolved matters, including the PM 2.5 pollution issue. He noted discrepancies in the government's reporting on burnt sugarcane sales, indicating a lack of clarity in the government's data. Natthaphong argued that the numbers should reflect the burning area rather than processed figures, suggesting the government's answers lacked precision.
On the tax issue, Nattapong remarked that the Prime Minister's explanations were indirect, leaving the public to perceive potential tax avoidance. He stressed the fine distinction between tax management and evasion, accusing the Prime Minister of deliberately avoiding inheritance taxes. Regarding a potential tax offense, Nattapong suggested the Revenue Department Director-General should set clear standards on such transactions.
When questioned about a possible ethics investigation following the Revenue Department's review, Nattapong expressed a willingness to wait for the government's clarifications. He underscored the importance of the hotel issue in Khao Yai, suggesting it could disqualify the Prime Minister if unresolved convincingly.
Discussing the debate's efficiency, Nattapong noted improved time management, commending all parties for adhering to the schedule. He expressed confidence that the debate would conclude promptly, with voting set for the following day.
Addressing the interpretation of "Kiki" by Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, Nattapong called for careful communication to avoid misunderstandings. He clarified that the term, related to cartoons or movies, may have been misconstrued, urging for positive societal communication.
Finally, Nattapong assured that the opposition would continue to present compelling arguments, with several key points and valuable information still to be discussed in the ongoing no-confidence debate.