Bangkok: Chaiyanok views the situation of MPs leaving group chats after being dissatisfied with the quota for committee chairpersons as normal. He affirms that the Bhumjaithai Party is fair to everyone, both those who passed and those who failed the election. He says they have to accept it and move on, as there are fewer positions than people. He acknowledges that the list of 14 names released is close to what he had planned, but will wait for the final decision tomorrow.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaiyachanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society and Secretary-General of the Bhumjaithai Party, addressed the issue of Mr. Natchanon Srikornguek, a Bhumjaithai Party MP from Songkhla, leaving the party's MPs' group chat. It is speculated that he was dissatisfied with the allocation of committee chairmanships. Mr. Chaiyachanok stated that it is natural for some to be disappointed given the increased number of MPs, a situation that occurs regularly. He added that there are still many important positions to consider, and therefore, the situation must be managed, and the party must move forward.
Regarding whether this will cause a rift within the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Chaiyachanok said it depends on the individual personalities of each MP, but overall, most MPs understand the changes and growth of the party. He believes the party has been fair to all members, both those who were elected and those who were not, and that they have managed the situation as best as they can. He believes the majority understands, and for those who feel they are not being treated fairly, the party attempts to engage in dialogue. However, if they still feel they are being treated unfairly, that is their right.
Speaking as the party secretary-general, Mr. Chaiyanok said that he could speak on behalf of the entire executive branch and that they would do their best. Regarding whether someone would be sent to mediate or resolve misunderstandings, Mr. Chaiyanok stated that there was no need to send anyone; they were already communicating normally because the situation wasn't beyond reach, and the Bhumjaithai Party isn't like that. When asked if they would speak with Mr. Natthanon directly, Mr. Chaiyanok said he had only just learned about the matter and hadn't met him yet, but they would talk tomorrow.
Concerning whether there were any issues with Mr. Natthanon's qualifications, Mr. Chaiyanok said it wasn't that he lacked the necessary qualifications, as he believed there were many qualified candidates, but the positions were limited. When asked how they would ensure everyone understood the situation as the party grew larger, Mr. Chaiyanok stated that it's impossible to please everyone, but they would manage the situation, as he had previously mentioned, because there are many other opportunities and important positions in politics available.
When asked whether the list of 14 MPs released yesterday matched the initial considerations, Mr. Chaiyanok admitted that it was close, but the final decision will be made on April 30th. He also expressed confusion as to how the list leaked, adding that it is not yet 100% final and could still be changed.