Bangkok: Pheu Thai deputy spokesperson has raised concerns about a proposal to count the quorum from the first day of the parliamentary session, criticizing it as excessive political maneuvering. The spokesperson emphasized that there is no justification for dissolving the parliament, which still has two years remaining in its term, and dismissed discussions of appointing an interim prime minister as an attempt to gain political leverage. Furthermore, the spokesperson denied reports regarding the return of ancient artifacts to Cambodia and vowed to take legal action against those spreading the misinformation.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Jiravat Aranyakanon, the deputy spokesman of the Pheu Thai Party, addressed recent questions surrounding the government’s stability, cabinet reshuffles, and the conditional proposal of an interim prime minister. He reiterated that cabinet reshuffles fall under the prime minister’s authority, aligning with democratic principles. Coalition parties are entitled to nominat
e ministers, and the prime minister is expected to choose individuals based on their expertise and experience. Mr. Jiravat expressed confidence that the ministers are actively presenting policies within their respective ministries, citing the Ministry of the Interior’s recent action against a gambling den in Saphan Mai as evidence of the government’s commitment to tackling issues like gambling, drugs, and illegal activities.

The deputy spokesperson also commented on the parliamentary session collapse on July 3, attributing it to the simultaneous commitments of ministers who had just been sworn in and the meetings of various committees, including the Budget Committee. He questioned the motives behind the quorum proposal, suggesting it was politically motivated and not in the public’s interest. He emphasized the need for cooperation among coalition parties to maintain a quorum and noted that the Pheu Thai Party has instructed its members to attend meetings.

The Pheu Thai Party has firmly stated that there is
no reason to dissolve the parliament, as it is currently engaged in important tasks, including the drafting of the 2026 budget bill and other legislative priorities. The deputy spokesperson argued that calls for dissolution are politically driven and overlook the significance of the 2026 budget in stimulating the economy. He highlighted the need to focus on activities that benefit citizens and restore public confidence, noting the financial implications of holding an election.

Addressing the proposal for a temporary prime minister, the deputy spokesperson emphasized that the selection process must adhere to constitutional guidelines and involve candidates from party lists submitted to the Election Commission. He dismissed suggestions of appointing a temporary prime minister with conditions requiring constitutional amendments and parliament dissolution, viewing them as politically opportunistic. The government, he asserted, has two more years to implement its budgetary plans and projects, and he expressed con
fidence in the stability of the administration. Despite the prime minister temporarily stepping down, the acting minister retains full authority, and the spokesperson expects the Constitutional Court to eventually rule in favor of the prime minister.

Finally, the spokesperson refuted claims that the government had returned ancient artifacts to Cambodia. He confirmed that the Prime Minister, also serving as the Minister of Culture, denied these reports and pledged to pursue legal action against those responsible for spreading the false information.