Bangkok: “Rome” is poised to summon “Paethongtarn-Phumtham-Maris” to clarify the delayed resolution efforts regarding the Thai-Cambodian border dispute. Rangsiman Rome, an MP for the People’s Party and Chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on State Security, Border Affairs, National Strategy and Reform, has expressed his concerns over the handling of the situation, particularly criticizing the current administration for leaving civil servants to address the issue on their own.
According to Thai News Agency, Rangsiman Rome announced his intention to discuss the border dispute in detail during a committee meeting, scheduled for Thursday, July 24. He plans to exercise the committee’s authority to summon Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Acting Prime Minister Mr. Phumtham Vejjayachai, and other relevant ministers to explain their actions. The dispute, which includes a mine incident on the Thai border that injured soldiers, has been exacerbated by a controversial audio clip involving Ms. Paethongtarn and Samdech Hun Sen, President of the Cambodian Senate.
Rangsiman Rome emphasized the gravity of the situation, particularly at the Ta Muen Thom temple, likening it to a boxing ring due to its tense atmosphere. He questioned the responsibility of Ms. Paethongtarn and Mr. Thaksin, highlighting the potential for escalation and the risk it poses to Thailand’s political stability. He criticized the government’s slow progress in negotiations and compliance with international conventions, citing the recent bomb booby traps as a violation of the Ottawa Convention.
Rome pointed out that Cambodia’s denial of involvement in the bombing lacks evidence, urging relevant agencies to investigate further. He criticized the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its slow response, including its failure to send a protest letter or engage in critical discussions. He argued that the government should not leave the resolution to civil servants alone and called for a more coordinated effort across all sectors, including security and foreign affairs.
In his remarks, Rangsiman Rome suggested that if Ms. Paethongtarn and Mr. Thaksin cannot effectively handle the situation, they should consider stepping down and returning power to the people through elections. He believes that holding a new election may provide a pathway for the country to move forward and alleviate current tensions.