Bangkok: "Sophon" has refuted claims made by the People's Power Party that the appointment process for the Leader of the Opposition is being delayed. These claims suggest that the delay is impacting the selection of independent organizations. Sophon highlighted that Nattapong's name has been proposed, and the procedures need to be followed accordingly, criticizing the party for expressing concerns solely for their own benefit.
According to Thai News Agency, during a session of the House of Representatives, chaired by Speaker Sophon Saram, Bangkok MP Pongsaranat Thonglee of the People's Party raised concerns about the delay in appointing the Leader of the Opposition. Thonglee argued that this delay affects the selection of individuals for independent commissions, which require the Leader of the Opposition to be involved. He emphasized that the absence of this leader creates an imbalance in the selection committee, potentially harming the public as the Speaker is part of the executive branch.
Speaker Sophon, however, did not permit discussions on this issue, as the current agenda was not finalized. He informed MPs that discussions outside the agenda should be submitted to the Speaker and that maintaining order in meetings necessitates adherence to the agenda and joint agreements. Sophon emphasized that while important matters could be discussed, raising issues without completion of the agenda was inappropriate.
This led to Mr. Pakornwut Udompipatkul, an MP from the People's Party, expressing his discontent with the Speaker's refusal to allow discussions unrelated to the agenda. Udompipatkul argued for MPs' rights to voice concerns and noted that forbidding such discussions could hinder collaboration. However, his microphone was switched off before further comments could be made.
Sophon responded to Udompipatkul's accusations by clarifying that he had not prevented discussions but requested that the agenda be completed before any specific topics were raised. He insisted that his actions were within reasonable limits and aimed at maintaining order, countering the claim that he was acting selfishly.
Mr. Pakornwut sought a review of the meeting recording to verify Sophon's remarks and requested a reconsideration of the characterization of his comments as "self-serving." He emphasized the need for clarity and collaboration in resolving the issue.
Mr. Pongsornat, another MP, reiterated the importance of appointing the Leader of the Opposition, particularly in light of recent meetings to select Constitutional Court judges, which typically include the Leader of the Opposition. He stressed that any delay in this appointment could reflect poorly on the Speaker and potentially disrupt the selection process.
Sophon assured the assembly that the appointment process was proceeding according to constitutional procedures and that any delays were not due to complacency on his part. He confirmed that the appointment proposal had been submitted and was awaiting completion.
Meanwhile, Mr. Nattawut Buaprathum of the People's Party confirmed that the party remains intact and requested that appointments of judges and independent organization members be postponed until the Leader of the Opposition is appointed, for the benefit of the public.
Sophon concluded by clarifying that he was not the chairman of the selection committee and had no authority over it, reaffirming that all actions were in line with constitutional requirements.