Thai Prime Minister Survives No-Confidence Vote

Thai Prime Minister speaks during a no-confidence hearing on March 24. Photo: Reuters

This is the first no-confidence motion against Ms. Paetongtarn since she became the youngest female prime minister in Thailand's history in August 2024. The debate was held under Section 151 of the 2017 Constitution, which allows opposition members to question the prime minister and on various issues.

During the debate, Prime Minister Paetongtarn responded to the Khao Kradong land dispute in Buriram province, a long-standing case involving the Land Department, the State Railway of Thailand and local residents.

She assured the House that the case was proceeding according to due process of law. Emphasizing justice and social harmony, she appealed to the public to be patient while the process was underway and stated that no cuts or interference would be allowed, ensuring fairness to all parties involved.

Ms Paetongtarn also addressed allegations regarding her family’s past involvement in the Alpine Golf Club land deal. She said the land acquisitions were supported by valid title deeds and were made within the scope of Thai property law.

On financial and tax matters, the Prime Minister, through her adviser Jirayu Huangsap, confirmed her full compliance with the asset disclosure regulations. She has submitted all required documents to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) since taking office and continues to cooperate with the verification process.

The Prime Minister dismissed speculation about the misuse of financial instruments, insisting that all transactions were properly conducted and transparently reported in her asset declarations. She also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency, due process and responsible governance.

Previously, analysts said the no-confidence vote on March 26 was unlikely to weaken Ms. Paetongtarn's ruling coalition.

Because Ms. Paetongtarn's ruling coalition currently controls 320 of the 500 seats in the House of Representatives. Meanwhile, for a no-confidence vote to succeed, the opposition needs to receive the support of more than half of the lawmakers in the House of Representatives.

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/thu-tuong-thai-lan-vuot-qua-cuoc-bo-phieu-bat-tin-nhiem-post316297.html