Bangkok: The election for the First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives is scheduled for August 7th, ahead of discussions on the 2016 budget. House Speaker Wan Muhammad Noor Matha announced the election to replace Mr. Pichet Chuamuangphan, emphasizing the need to prioritize the election before the budget discussions set for August 13th-15th.

According to Thai News Agency, the House will request a postponement of further agenda items to accommodate the second and third readings of the 2026 Budget Bill. These sessions will require extensive consideration, necessitating the completion of the Deputy Speaker election beforehand. The Constitution grants Members of the House the power to propose candidates, with the individual receiving the majority of votes assuming the position.

The Speaker also commented on the allocation of time for the budget bill readings, noting that the government has yet to make an official announcement. This remains an internal coordination effort, with discussions between government and opposition whips required to determine the timeframe. The duration of the second reading is uncertain, as it hinges on the number of amendments reserved by members, though last year’s debate spanned three days.