Bangkok: Prasert Chantarawongthong, the Secretary-General of the Pheu Thai Party, has criticized the government party for discontinuing the practice of “fishing in a friend’s pond.” He claims that the practice provides benefits in return and that halting it is not democratic. Prasert expresses confidence that a no-confidence motion can be filed with the support of Pheu Thai MPs.

According to Thai News Agency, Prasert addressed the motion of no confidence under Article 151 of the Constitution, stating that the final decision is still pending from the party’s strategy committee. He clarified that the Pheu Thai Party is currently preparing for a no-confidence motion under Section 151, with information being collected for the debate. The party has organized a working group and is actively compiling issues to be addressed.

Prasert emphasized that a no-confidence motion can be submitted solely by Pheu Thai Party MPs, which necessitates a one-fifth majority as per the constitution. The People’s Party does not need the votes of the opposition leader or Pheu Thai. The Pheu Thai Party currently has 140 MPs, and it remains uncertain whether the People’s Party will support the motion.

Prasert also addressed the issue of certain political parties attempting to lure Pheu Thai MPs away. He mentioned that several Pheu Thai MPs and members have expressed discomfort with the ruling party’s persistent invitations, despite their refusals. Prasert labeled this behavior as “fishing in a friend’s pond” and urged the inviting parties to cease such actions. He acknowledged that party switching is common but argued that transfers involving benefits are undemocratic and undermine the democratic process.