Prime Minister’s Authority to Dissolve Parliament Amid No-Confidence Motion Debate

Bangkok: “Phradon” has highlighted that if the debate over a no-confidence motion is opened, regardless of the government’s explanation, it will lose the vote.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paradorn Prisananantakul, Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office and a Bhumjaithai Party MP for Ang Thong, addressed the Prime Minister’s statement regarding the potential dissolution of Parliament on December 12th in the face of a no-confidence motion. Mr. Paradorn emphasized that the authority to dissolve Parliament lies solely with the Prime Minister and that the decision hinges on the Prime Minister’s judgment. He noted that the government is currently in a minority, making the loss of the vote inevitable, irrespective of how the debate unfolds.

When questioned by reporters about any discussions between the Prime Minister and members of the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Paradorn revealed that he became aware of the news only on November 20th. He encouraged a wait-and-see approach to assess the political situation as December 12th approaches.

Regarding the readiness of the Bhumjaithai Party should Parliament be dissolved, Mr. Paradorn stated that the party has been prepared since June, following their involvement in the previous government. He clarified that the party is ready for elections whenever they occur. Addressing concerns about MPs registering for party membership within the 30-day timeframe before elections, Mr. Paradorn explained that the law calculates this period from the election day, not from when Parliament is dissolved.

Questions about potential transfers of MPs from other parties to the Bhumjaithai Party were met with Mr. Paradorn’s admission of uncertainty, as he had not engaged in discussions to recruit members from other parties. He mentioned meeting with Mr. Nikorn Chamnong from the Chartthaipattana Party recently but stated that their conversations were general and did not involve party transfers. He reinforced that any decisions about invitations would rest with the Bhumjaithai Party leader.

When asked about joining the Central Region tag team, Mr. Paradorn humorously reaffirmed his commitment to the Bhumjaithai Party, expressing his desire for the party’s growth. Regarding potential affiliations with the Somsap family from Nakhon Pathom Province, Mr. Paradorn stated he was unaware of any developments.

Mr. Paradorn also mentioned that he had not yet reviewed the agenda for the Bhumjaithai Party’s upcoming general meeting on November 23rd. However, he anticipated that the meeting would address election preparations, the formation of committees for candidate selection, policy, and strategy, all requiring a general meeting resolution.