Bangkok: Thawee has confirmed his support for the Pheu Thai Party’s collaboration with the People’s Party to establish a government, underscoring that if the opposition takes power, it would be more beneficial to dissolve Parliament to facilitate new elections. He criticized the practice of minority parties forming a government as inconsistent with democratic values.
According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong, Minister of Justice and leader of the Prachachat Party, articulated the Prachachat Party’s stance on government formation. As a smaller party, he emphasized his commitment to aligning with the larger Pheu Thai Party, which is pivotal in gathering votes for government formation.
Pol. Col. Thawee expressed uncertainty about the Pheu Thai Party’s ability to secure sufficient votes to form a government, noting that the current political climate lacks stability. He suggested that dissolving Parliament and returning power to the people might be the most advantageous course of action. He raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of elections, even with the Election Commission’s oversight.
Discussing the potential outcomes of dissolving Parliament or remaining in the opposition, Pol. Col. Thawee stated that while the Pheu Thai Party is optimistic about securing votes to form a government, the existing rules allowing minority parties to form a government undermine democratic ideals. He emphasized the necessity of finding a solution that prevents undue influence and intimidation, advocating for the return of power to the people.
The responsibility now lies with the People’s Party, according to Pol. Col. Thawee. If they fail to secure the necessary votes, the alternative remains dissolving Parliament. He reiterated his readiness to support both the Pheu Thai Party and the People’s Party in government formation, stressing that democracy is fundamentally based on majority rule. He opposed the notion of minority parties forming a government, labeling it undemocratic.
Regarding the opposition’s position, Pol. Col. Thawee highlighted the honor inherent in both opposition and government roles. While the Prachachat Party may not lead government formation, alignment with parties sharing similar ideologies is crucial.
Addressing the debate over the acting prime minister’s authority to dissolve Parliament, Pol. Col. Thawee clarified that the issue has been settled, with the law requiring adherence to the constitution, the law, and the rule of law from parliament, the government, the courts, and independent organizations. Any opinions contradicting the constitution are not permissible.