Bangkok: The United Front for the Protection of Sovereignty group has submitted a letter requesting the cancellation of MOUs 43-44, which they claim are the root cause of the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border dispute. The Deputy Speaker of the House has expressed readiness to mediate in the matter, while the Secretary-General of the Bhumjaithai Party praised the unity of the Thai people in light of recent border incidents.
According to Thai News Agency, the United Front for Sovereignty group, led by Mr. Jatuporn Prompan and other notable figures, gathered at the People’s Plaza in front of Parliament to pursue an urgent motion in the House of Representatives concerning the 2000 and 2001 Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) between Thailand and Cambodia. These agreements are widely regarded as the catalyst for the border dispute.
The letter was received by Mr. Chaiya Phromma and Mr. Chalat Khamchuan, Deputy Speakers of the House of Representatives, along with representatives from various political parties, including the Chartthaipattana Party, the Prachachon Party, and the Bhumjaithai Party. Mr. Chalat emphasized that the public square is open for use by protesters should they face inconvenience elsewhere, and assured that the matter would be facilitated within the House through coordination with MPs.
The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Secretary-General Chaichanok Chidchob, expressed concern over multiple national crises but highlighted the unity of the Thai people. Chaichanok urged continued solidarity and expressed confidence in overcoming crises by focusing on democracy and national interests. He mentioned that despite the cancellations of the MOUs, Thailand and Cambodia could still negotiate bilaterally.
Mr. Chaichanok also disclosed that Cambodian violations of the MOU have been documented over 600 times. The Bhumjaithai Party has proposed an urgent motion to study the least impactful method of repealing the MOUs, advocating for a public referendum to ensure transparency and national acceptance.
Meanwhile, Mr. Rangsiman Rome, leader of the People’s Party, received a letter on stage amidst boos from the crowd. Despite the negative reception, he pledged the People’s Party’s commitment to national interests and promised to prove their sincerity through action and time. Rangsiman assured the public that the party would continue to fulfill its duties as an opposition party and prioritize the country’s interests in Parliament.