Thai House Speaker's 122-Day 'Achievements' Face Fierce Criticism from Opposition as 'Illusion'

Thailand's House Speaker, Sophon Sarum, has announced his achievements over the first 122 days of his tenure, under the banner of "Transforming Parliament for the People." However, the opposition Prachachon Party has strongly criticized these claims, labeling them as mere "credit-claiming." The Prachachon Party, led by its leader Natthaphong Ruangpanyawut, along with Pharit Watcharasindhu and Phanthil Nuanjem, have vociferously attacked the Speaker's report. They argue that the high number of laws passed and ministerial responses to questions are merely "statistical illusions." Pharit specifically pointed out that many of the 14 laws cited as achievements were carried over from the previous parliamentary session. He also noted that while 33 ministerial responses were recorded, the actual ministers rarely attended, with representatives only appearing after advance notice from the opposition. A key point of contention is the Speaker's recent decision to establish an external committee to screen petitions related to the stock ownership allegations against former Transport Minister Saksiam Chidchob. Pharit directly questioned whether this move was a tactic to delay the proceedings or an attempt to whitewash the case, preventing it from reaching the Supreme Court. He emphasized that the Speaker lacks the authority to adjudicate such matters and that the delay of over 41 days before this decision is concerning. Phanthil further criticized the parliamentary administration, citing issues such as the burden placed on civil servants by mandatory aerobics sessions and the lapse of the 10-billion-baht parliamentary building insurance. He questioned why the parliament does not claim compensation from contractors for building defects, yet seeks additional funds for repairs, sarcastically asking if Mr. Sophon is the Speaker or the building manager. The Prachachon Party urged Speaker Sophon to cease his "propaganda activities" and focus on amending parliamentary regulations to enhance transparency, such as live-streaming committee meetings and expediting the referral of petitions to the Supreme Court. They believe this is crucial to prove his sincerity and counter accusations of protecting his allies. Information source: INN News