The next prime minister’s parliamentary selection could see more nominees beyond Pita Limjaroenrat of the Move Forward Party (MFP), according to Senator Akanit Muensawad.
Responding to increasing demands from MFP backers for senators to endorse Mr. Pita for the prime ministerial position, he stated that additional nominees could potentially arise.
Thus, senators are entitled to support the candidate they believe is the most suitable choice, based on ethical criteria and competence, General Akanit further explained.
“Well, they should gather 376 votes from MPs from the beginning, then senators will totally opt out of voting [to select the new PM] altogether,” he commented.
This comes in light of conjectures that Senate might face reproach from MFP advocates if Mr. Pita fails to accumulate 376 votes.
“You will become the government if you get 376 votes right from the beginning. Can you? Don’t make it sound like the Senate’s fault,” he stated.
Senator Jate Siratharanont indicated that certain senators had ruled out the possibility of discussions with the MFP as it solicits Senate backing for Mr. Pita’s candidacy for prime minister.
The party’s intention to modify Section 112, also recognized as the lese majeste law, has deterred some individuals.
On the topic of MFP’s military reform policy, General Akanit expressed his support for the armed forces to implement their own reforms, rather than adopting the model proposed by the MFP.
He criticized the MFP for taking inspiration from the organizational structure of the US military for their suggested reform of the Thai military.
The proposed changes would see the end of conscription, along with the dissolution of the Defence Council, Internal Security Operation Command (Isoc), and the military court.
