BANGKOK, Thailand – Wisut Chainaroon, a Pheu Thai party-list MP and chairman of the government coalition coordination committee, announced on March 1 that the government plans to allow only one day for the opposition’s no-confidence debate against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Speaking on the debate schedule following the opposition’s motion to censure only the prime minister, Wisut stated that a single day should be sufficient, arguing that five days, as requested by the opposition, would only be necessary if multiple ministers were included. “If the debate targets only the prime minister, one day is enough. Use the time wisely and finish in a single session—no need to drag it out,” he said.
He confirmed that the debate is set for March 24 and will conclude with a vote immediately after midnight, without postponing the decision to the next day. However, he noted that the final decision will be made at a March 3 meeting of the government whip, where the proposal is expected to be agreed upon before being discussed with the opposition. “If they refuse, that’s their issue,” he added.
When asked whether limiting the debate to one day was a way to shield the prime minister from criticism, Wisut denied any such intention, insisting that Paetongtarn was capable of defending herself. He also pointed out that she would not have to respond to every point alone, as other ministers could address issues related to their respective ministries. “For instance, if transport policies are raised, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit can respond. If agricultural issues are mentioned, Agriculture Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat can answer,” he explained.
Opposition parties have criticized the decision, arguing that it reflects a lack of democratic openness compared to the previous administration under General Prayut Chan-o-cha, which allowed multiple days for censure debates. Wisut dismissed the criticism, stating, “Let the opposition become the government first, then they can set a five-day debate if they want. Keeping the prime minister and ministers occupied in Parliament for five days would only hinder the country’s administration.”
Regarding concerns that the opposition may bring up former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during the debate, Wisut warned that any allegations of Thaksin exerting influence over the current government would be met with strong objections. “We won’t protest every mention of Thaksin. It’s fine to state that he is the prime minister’s father—that’s a fact. But if they claim he controls the government, that’s unacceptable. It would be an accusation against someone who isn’t present to defend himself, violating parliamentary rules,” he said.
He further defended Paetongtarn’s right to consult her father, emphasizing that listening to the opinions of a two-time former prime minister does not equate to being controlled. “Why shouldn’t she be allowed to listen to her father’s advice? We’re not blindly protecting the prime minister—we are sticking to the facts,” he concluded.
