Bangkok: The opposition was taken aback when Chaiya Promma, the First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, suddenly ordered the closure of a parliamentary meeting that was set to discuss the cancellation of Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) 43-44. This unexpected move has sparked significant criticism from opposition leaders and raised questions about the government’s handling of critical issues.
According to Thai News Agency, members of the opposition, led by Mr. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the Prachachon Party, expressed their dismay at the abrupt adjournment. Mr. Natthaphong criticized the government for creating obstacles in the path of finding solutions and accused it of crippling parliamentary proceedings. He emphasized the need for parliament to serve as a beacon of hope and a platform for addressing the Thai-Cambodian conflict, rather than being prematurely adjourned.
Mr. Pakornwut Udompipatsakul, Chairman of the Opposition Coordinating Committee, noted that the motion concerning MOU 43-44 had been designated as an urgent matter. Despite prior coordination and preparation for a special committee to study the MOUs, the sudden meeting closure thwarted these efforts. He highlighted the importance of parliamentary discussions in offering hope to the people and criticized the government’s narrow support for undermining the legislative process.
Ms. Nan Bunthida Somchai, spokesperson for the Bhumjaithai Party, recounted the extensive negotiations between government and opposition whips, which were aimed at ensuring the urgent motion would be addressed. She expressed disbelief at the chairman’s decision to close the session abruptly, emphasizing the need for transparency and dialogue on national issues.
Mr. Chaichanok Chidchob urged patience among the public and called for perseverance in the pursuit of truth. He criticized the government’s attempts to suppress information and expressed confidence that the truth would eventually prevail. He also stressed the importance of unity and peaceful efforts to address the country’s problems, warning against the potential for unrest.
The opposition’s frustration was further compounded when Mr. Chaiya justified the meeting’s closure by claiming he was instructed to do so. However, Mr. Pakornwut refuted any coordination regarding the meeting’s abrupt end, underscoring the lack of communication and transparency in the decision-making process.
As the opposition grapples with this sudden turn of events, they remain committed to ensuring that the pending motion is addressed and that parliament fulfills its role in solving the nation’s issues.