Chonburi: In a recent development, the Prachachon Party has announced that it will not expel MP Kritsada Chivathamanon from the party despite her request. Instead, the party will pursue legal avenues to determine whether her letter can be considered a resignation from her role as an MP, and all rights within the party will be suspended as a result.
According to Thai News Agency, the decision was revealed in a joint statement by Mr. Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the Prachachon Party, Mr. Pakornwut Udompipatsakul, deputy leader, and Mr. Sahasawat Khumkhong, Chonburi MP. The statement addressed Ms. Kritsada's request to end her association with the party, citing a lack of justice and support for her initiatives. Mr. Pakornwut, however, clarified that the party had consistently backed work in the Si Racha area, including budget allocations for policy development activities.
Mr. Pakornwut emphasized that the party values respect for sexual diversity and has provided Ms. Kritsada with opportunities to work on related issues, such as the Marriage Equality Act. He addressed concerns raised by Ms. Kritsada about her speech in the House of Representatives, noting that it was not about content but the use of personal needs in discussions, which was deemed inappropriate for parliamentary discourse.
The party leader, Mr. Nattapong, affirmed that there had been no internal pressure on Ms. Krit, contrary to her claims, and expressed the need to ensure fairness for the constituents of District 6. He indicated that Ms. Kritsada's actions and statements suggest an intention to leave the party, and the party would seek legal interpretation to confirm whether her letter constituted a resignation.
Mr. Nattapong mentioned plans to visit the Chonburi area to reassure constituents of continued service and assigned Mr. Sahasawat to oversee the region. He also addressed speculation about Ms. Kritsada's motives for leaving, suggesting potential political maneuvering related to cabinet reshuffle negotiations. However, he assured that the party remains committed to its opposition role and urged the public to evaluate the situation critically.
In conclusion, the Prachachon Party has decided to suspend Ms. Kritsada's party rights while awaiting a legal interpretation of her resignation letter. The party reaffirmed its commitment to its constituents and clarified its stance against discrimination, emphasizing its core values and principles.