Bangkok: The no-confidence debate against the government of Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra began under disorganized circumstances, as the House of Representatives meeting started 20 minutes late due to an incomplete quorum. The session, which was scheduled to commence at 8:00 a.m., was delayed until 8:20 a.m. when sufficient members, totaling 349 out of 493 MPs, were present.

According to Thai News Agency, the atmosphere in the House of Representatives was unexpectedly subdued, with a significant number of MPs absent at the start. Notably, most early attendees were from the Prachachon Party, while government MPs were slow to fill their seats. Among those present early was Mr. Chuan Leekpai from the Democrat Party. Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, arrived at 7:00 a.m., preparing for the debate.

The session, chaired by Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, commenced with interruptions. Ms. Wanwipa Maison of the Prachachon Party raised concerns about the labor rights of parliamentary employees, highlighting issues like inadequate welfare and limited overtime compensation. Her remarks led to a brief period of disorder.

Mr. Adhisorn Piangket of the Pheu Thai Party attempted to bring focus to the debate’s democratic significance by reciting a poem, which was cut short by Mr. Pakornwut Udompipatsakul, Chief Whip of the opposition, who urged for a more substantial discussion.

Further debate arose when Mr. Krumanit Sangphum of the Pheu Thai Party questioned the motion’s wording, expressing concerns about the scope of the debate and the ministers’ roles. Mr. Wan Muhammad Noor clarified that ministers could explain their roles if their work was referenced, emphasizing the importance of the debate’s content.

At 8:37 a.m., Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, the opposition leader, initiated the formal debate, with Prime Minister Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra present in the session to listen.