Bangkok: "Chulaphan" has firmly denied any rejection of the Pheu Thai Party's candidate list, clarifying that the list has not yet been submitted to the Bhumjaithai Party. This statement was made amidst a backdrop of political activity as key figures from the Pheu Thai Party, including Yotsanan, Julaphan, Prasert, and Suriya, along with constituency MPs, paid homage at the parliamentary shrine before commencing their duties. Julaphan underscored their preparedness to introduce 20 bills once parliament convenes and downplayed concerns regarding the Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Agriculture, noting that they are not considered high-priority ministries.
According to Thai News Agency, on the second day of registration for the 27th House of Representatives, Mr. Julaphan Amornvivat, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, alongside key party figures and dozens of constituency MPs, participated in a ceremonial visit to Phra Siam Thewathirat and the shrine of the ancestors at Parliament. This visit preceded their official registration at the Secretariat of the House of Representatives at approximately 10:00 AM.
Mr. Yotsanan Wongsawat, after submitting registration documents, expressed pride in serving the nation and emphasized the unity and readiness of the Pheu Thai Party to work for the people. He clarified that no discussions regarding ministerial roles had occurred with the Bhumjaithai Party since their cooperative announcement. Internal discussions within Pheu Thai have yet to address these roles, as the party is awaiting government formation by the leading party.
Mr. Chulaphan addressed rumors concerning ministerial allocations, indicating no further discussions have taken place. He highlighted that Pheu Thai is not the leading party, and thus must wait for the coalition government to form. He noted that nearly 300 votes have been secured, signaling readiness for government formation. Once the leading party coordinates with coalition partners, detailed discussions on ministerial roles can proceed.
Chulaphan reiterated that cabinet appointments are the Prime Minister's prerogative. Following MP certification, the parliament will elect the Speaker and later vote for the Prime Minister. Clarity on the cabinet's composition will follow these events, with appointments made by royal decree. He emphasized collective decision-making and expressed confidence in smooth negotiations with Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul.
Regarding the alleged rejection of the Pheu Thai Party's list, Chulaphan confirmed no such rejection has occurred, as the list remains unsubmitted. He dismissed the rumors as a misunderstanding, not a deliberate leak, and stressed the qualifications and value of all parliamentary candidates.
Chulaphan asserted that discussions about ministerial positions have not begun but recognized the qualifications of many MP candidates for such roles. The executive committee will address this in due course. He maintained that reported scenarios of list rejection would prompt discussions but have not caused discord within the party.
The Pheu Thai Party's unity and legislative readiness were displayed as all candidates reported for duty together. Yoschanan announced plans to chair a meeting at party headquarters on approximately 20 legislative proposals, underscoring the party's preparedness for parliamentary work.
In response to Bhumjaithai Party's interest in younger ministerial candidates, Yotsanan confirmed that discussions would occur, focusing on immediate priorities and addressing both national and global challenges. He refrained from commenting on potential ministerial appointments but assured transparency once roles are clarified.
Regarding speculation on ministries potentially led by Pheu Thai, Yotsanan stated no ministry is less significant, and policies will be determined through further dialogue. He also addressed Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra's remarks on Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra's political cessation, noting it as a personal matter with no impact on Pheu Thai's operations.