Bangkok: The meeting of the two whips has been postponed, with the Prime Minister’s vote scheduled for 3 p.m. today. The postponement is attributed to a pending written response from the Constitutional Court following submissions by 20 Pheu Thai MPs. These submissions concern the judges’ term expiration, the “Paethongtarn” case, and the clarification of the House dissolution.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chalat Khamchuang, the Second Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, revealed the developments after a bipartisan meeting discussing the date for the vote of a new prime minister. The meeting lasted approximately one and a half hours. During this meeting, the Pheu Thai Party MPs submitted a request to the Speaker of the House, asking for the Constitutional Court’s consideration of the legality of the adjudication process. Case No. 17/2568 (2025) specifically pertains to the Constitutional Court’s 6-3 vote ruling that Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, has ceased to be Prime Minister. This ruling followed the appointment of Mr. Sarawut Songsivilai as a Constitutional Court judge in place of Mr. Panya Udchachon on the evening of September 2nd. The whips discussed reasons from both sides to clarify whether the Constitutional Court would accept the case. The meeting concluded with an agreement to adjourn until 3:00 PM, ensuring peace of mind for
all parties while adhering to regulations. The court anticipates a swift resolution, given the urgency of the matter, and plans to convene another meeting at 3:00 p.m. once the verdict is issued.
During the meeting, there was also a request to include the Prime Ministerial vote on Friday, September 5th. Mr. Chalat emphasized the importance of concluding discussions on setting the date for the vote today, while awaiting the Constitutional Court’s input to avoid overstepping other powers.
Mr. Chalat further noted that he had formally submitted the matter to the Constitutional Court and was awaiting a written response. He stressed the necessity for the nation to have a government and expressed his desire for the elections to proceed with integrity and fairness, strictly adhering to the rule of law, without objections from any party.
When questioned about potential delays, Mr. Chalat assured that all parties had agreed to the meeting, underscoring the importance of maintaining peace of mind for all involved and ensuring readiness by 3:30 PM, the time when the House of Representatives would issue the meeting notice. If no other issues arise, the meeting is planned for Friday, September 5th.
Mr. Chalat clarified that there was no discussion about submitting a royal command to dissolve parliament during the meeting of the two whips. In response to Mr. Bhumtham Wechayachai’s confirmation of his appointment as acting Prime Minister, Mr. Chalat stated that an official announcement would be awaited. He reiterated the need for vigilance and clarity within the House of Representatives, emphasizing that the nation cannot be without a Prime Minister. He stressed the importance of a swift, diligent, and stable approach, adhering to regulations. The meeting agreed to await legal clarity without objection.