Political parties boycotting todays meeting are ‘trouble makers’
Deputy PM Prawit Wongsuwan, who is also defence minister and luxury watch enthusiast, says that parties boycotting today’s meeting were troublemakers.
Meanwhile, the Thai PM claims the missing political parties were like boxers who refused to abide by the rules of the fight and would not listen to the referee’s explanations.
But political scientist says this only points to the junta’s failure in reconciliation efforts that have been constantly highlighted by the coup makers over the past four years. Wanwichit Boonprong says the NCPO has now become part of the problem.
General Prayut, who also Chairs the ruling NCPO, says people should themselves decide on what should be done with politicians who refuse to join a meeting that aims to explain the “rules and regulations” of the upcoming elections.
The national poll has been tentatively scheduled for February 24.
“They are just making trouble, but I don’t think there will be any impact. We have invited them for a discussion. There is no reason not to come,” the PM told reporters at Government House.
General Prawit, in charge of national security amongst other things, claims the errant parties were ‘trouble makers’. He was referring to Pheu Thai and the Democrats, as well as some new parties including Future Forward, Thai Raksa Chart and Puea Chat that have boycotted today’s meeting.
He says the meeting is being held for the parties to have their queries about the election answered.
“We are ready to explain whatever they want to know,” Prawit said.
A spokesperson for the NCPO, Colonel Sirichan Ngathong, says that the junta has invited 105 political parties to the meeting.
“The NCPO wants all parties to cooperate so the elections can be held without any problems,” she said.
“We call on them to be open-minded and take part in the discussion. The NCPO wanted all sides to hear relevant information about the vote. The authorities will also hear suggestions from the political side.”
