Bangkok: Bhumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, criticized Parit for challenging the dissolution of parliament, accusing him of prioritizing personal desires over the political process. Bhumtham questioned the trustworthiness of the Bhumjaithai Party, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to form a government and the lack of a political deadlock that would necessitate dissolving parliament.
According to Thai News Agency, Bhumtham, acting as Prime Minister, addressed the media before a Cabinet meeting about the absence of a concrete agenda for appointments and transfers, and affirmed his full authority, including the power to dissolve parliament. He dismissed any immediate plans to discuss dissolving parliament, as the government formation process is still underway.
Bhumtham highlighted the current political division into three camps, questioning the reliability of alliances and the trust placed in parties like the Bhumjaithai Party. He criticized the former Democrat Party MP Thepthai Senapong’s claims about Pheu Thai’s future actions and emphasized the need for Pheu Thai to clarify its position before speculating on political moves.
He noted that discussions regarding government formation are ongoing, with no definitive answers or commitments from parties like the Prachachon Party. Bhumtham emphasized the importance of democratic mechanisms and the need for clear agreements before moving forward with nominations and votes in parliament.
The lack of trust from the People’s Party due to past experiences was also addressed, with Bhumtham stating that the decision to trust lies with the People’s Party. He stressed that Pheu Thai has publicly outlined its intentions and awaits the People’s Party’s response.
Bhumtham dismissed the notion that the People’s Party’s strategy is to force a parliamentary dissolution, arguing that such actions would demonstrate a disregard for the political process and the country’s well-being. He urged for patience and adherence to democratic principles while the current process unfolds.
As for the ongoing negotiations, Bhumtham expressed confidence that a consensus would be reached without resorting to dissolving parliament. He maintained that the Pheu Thai Party’s commitment to democracy remains strong and urged the People’s Party to consider their options carefully before making decisions.
Bhumtham concluded by advising against jumping to conclusions and emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence in the government’s stability during this period of political transition. He reiterated that any final decision regarding parliament dissolution would depend on the evolving political landscape and the outcomes of ongoing discussions.