Bangkok: Pheu Thai Party is confident of receiving favorable news on August 29th concerning the “Prime Minister’s audio clip case,” with no contingency plans in place as the party believes in the pure intentions of Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra. The party denies any intentions of resignation or dissolving Parliament, attributing frequent parliamentary collapses to MPs attending committee meetings and asserting the coalition’s strength.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Chantarawongthong, a member of the Pheu Thai Party, addressed the Criminal Court’s acquittal of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in a separate case. The Constitutional Court is set to deliver a final ruling on the leaked audio clip case on August 29th. Prasert expressed confidence in the Prime Minister’s ability to clarify the situation, with expectations of positive news. The court’s acquittal of Thaksin Shinawatra, confirming his innocence, serves as encouragement for Pheu Thai Party members, given his status as a spiritual leader within the party.
Prasert addressed concerns about the remaining cases involving Ms. Paethongtarn and Mr. Thaksin, expressing confidence in receiving justice and proving their positions. Ms. Paethongtarn’s intentions, according to Prasert, are directed towards protecting national interests.
When queried about a backup plan, Prasert stated there is none, emphasizing that current factors do not necessitate a House dissolution. He dismissed rumors of Ms. Paethongtarn’s resignation, indicating her commitment to the position.
Prasert also addressed the readiness of Chaikasem Nitisiri, the Pheu Thai Party’s prime ministerial candidate, stating confidence that a change in leadership will not be necessary. He acknowledged the constitutional process for selecting a prime minister should an unforeseen political event occur, reiterating the coalition’s solidarity.
On the topic of parliamentary collapses, Prasert highlighted the importance of MPs attending committee meetings, which sometimes results in unmet quorums. He emphasized the coalition’s stability, evidenced by the 2026 budget vote where government MPs showed full attendance.
Regarding the People’s Party’s stance on needing party votes to pass certain laws or motions, Prasert noted that while differences in opinion exist, they are part of normal political discourse, with preparations made to address them.