No-confidence motion targets PM Paetongtarn

Opposition Leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has launched a political firestorm by filing a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of incompetence and corruption. The motion, submitted under Section 151 of the Constitution at Parliament today, February 27, aims to unseat Paetongtarn amid claims of poor governance and political manipulation.

Natthaphong, head of the People’s Party, announced that while the motion targets Paetongtarn directly, the debate will scrutinise all ministries. He cited her alleged failure to effectively manage the coalition government, arguing, “We cannot trust the current government to govern the country because the prime minister lacks the qualifications, knowledge, and the will to resolve the people’s problems.”

He also slammed the government’s economic performance, highlighting that Thailand’s GDP growth is among the lowest in ASEAN. Natthaphong accused the 38 year old PM of appointing ministers based on political favours rather than merit, undermining leadership and effective governance.

A major accusation centres on Paetongtarn’s alleged involvement of her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, in government affairs. Natthaphong claimed that she allowed Thaksin to wield influence behind the scenes, questioning her independence as a leader. He also criticised her for permitting subordinates to hold power over her, describing it as a severe dereliction of duty.

Corruption allegations were another focal point, with Natthaphong promising to expose government mismanagement during the no-confidence debate, which he framed as a test of the coalition’s stability.

House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha confirmed receipt of the no-confidence motion, stating that it would undergo a procedural review within seven days. Any necessary revisions would be made before it is forwarded to the government. The censure debate is scheduled for March 24, with discussions on its timing and duration to be held between the opposition leader and the government’s chief whip.

First Deputy Speaker Pichet Chuamuangphan has been appointed to oversee the deliberations. The Speaker expressed hope that the debate would be productive and informative for the public and all political parties involved.

When asked about rumours that Thaksin might establish a war room to respond to the debate, the Speaker clarified that the proceedings are strictly between MPs and ministers. He added that if any external individuals are mentioned, they have the right to pursue legal action, reported The Nation.

With political tensions escalating, all eyes are now on the upcoming censure debate, which could determine the future of Paetongtarn’s leadership and the stability of the coalition government.