Opposition outlines censure debate plan

The parliamentary Opposition camp will seek a censure debate against the government during the next House session, with the ruling Bhumjaithai party's alleged Senate election fraud top of the agenda, according to People's party deputy leader Parit Wacharasindhu.

Parit, who is also the chief opposition whip, told the media on Tuesday that the Opposition parties are discussing exactly when to hold the debate, but asserted that it will take place during the next House session, which runs from August 25th through to until December.

He said the no-confidence debate will cover many issues, including Senate election fraud allegations.

"We need to tell MPs in parliament and the public that this government no longer deserves to be trusted," he said.

The Bhumjaithai Party has been accused of masterminding alleged manipulation of the 2024 Senate election through systematic vote rigging and buying linked to key party figures and areas regarded as Bhumjaithai strongholds.

Bhumjaithai leader Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was also named by the human rights promotion organisation iLaw, along with eight other Bhumjaithai politicians, as being the alleged masterminds. The governing party has, however, consistently denied the allegations, claiming that it is ready to face the legal process.

“Just let the law take its course. There's nothing to worry about,” said Bhumjaithai MP Korrawee Prissananantakul earlier this week. He is among the figures named by iLaw and has urged everyone to avoid the issue as part of a political game.

The decision on the next step in case, which must be made this month, currently lies with the Election Commission (EC), whether to forward it to the Supreme Court or dismiss it.

Yesterday, Parit urged the EC to forward the case, claiming that there is sufficient evidence of fraud and warned that failing to do so could put the watchdog in breach of Section 157 of the Thai Criminal Code for malfeasance in office.

Separately, asked about rumours of instability within the Cabinet, the lawmaker said his current focus is entirely on the censure debate as a tool to keep the government in check.