MFP leader asserts party will not be dissolved

Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Chaithawat Tulathon stands firm, confidently asserting that his party will not be dissolved by the Constitutional Court next month. However, not everyone shares his optimism. MP Rangsiman Rome has voiced serious doubts about their chances.

Chaithawat appeared upbeat despite the looming court decision on August 7. In stark contrast, party-list MP Rangsiman Rome expressed deep concern, pointing to the court’s decision to halt witness deliberations as a troubling sign.

“The chance of escaping dissolution is very slim, especially since the court refused to hear witnesses from our side.”

The Election Commission (EC) accused the MFP of attempting to overthrow the constitutional monarchy, citing their pledge to amend Article 112 of the Criminal Code, the lese majeste law, as evidence of their hostility towards the monarchy.

Rangsiman lamented the missed opportunity to have Professor Dr Surapon Nitikraipoj, a respected public law expert, testify in the party’s defence.

“Without a witness inquiry, we lose a crucial chance to counter the EC’s allegations.”

Despite this, Chaithawat remains unshaken.

“We are performing our duty in the opposition as usual and are not concerned about the court’s decision on August 7.”

The MFP has not prepared any contingency plans for a potential dissolution, reflecting Chaithawat’s unwavering confidence.

He highlighted that the court would consider written statements and witness accounts from both the EC and MFP.

“I’m confident the court will take Professor Dr Surapon’s written opinion into account.”

Chaithawat has already submitted extensive written arguments and Surapon’s testimony to demonstrate the party’s innocence.

The MFP leader also pointed out procedural lapses by the EC in filing the complaint, asserting that their actions were unlawful. He plans to draft a closing statement before the court’s July 24 deadline.

As the House of Representatives meets on August 7 and 8, Chaithawat stated that the party has not yet discussed meeting preparations, reported The Nation.

“I’ll definitely meet the press on August 8 after the House meeting, where we’ll submit an interpellation against PM Srettha Thavisin.

“See you on August 8.”