The Senate has welcomed its new leadership, with Senate Speaker Mongkol Surasatja and his deputies, Gen Kriangkrai Srirak and Boonsong Noisophon, being worn in on Saturday (July 27).
Mongkol, a former governor of Buri Ram province, won the speakership with 159 out of 200 votes, while his deputies Gen Kriangkrai and Boonsong garnered 150 and 167 votes, respectively. The election process spanned multiple levels, including district, provincial, and national stages, showcasing a broad base of support for the new leaders within the Senate.
The composition of the new Senate aligns with major political factions. The “blue” bloc, associated with the Bhumjaithai Party, has emerged as the largest group, complemented by members linked to the ruling Pheu Thai Party and the opposition Move Forward Party.
Despite existing political affiliations, Mongkol has committed to maintaining the integrity of the legislative process, stressing the importance of ethical standards and legal norms. He also made clear that the extensive connections he had made during his civil service career would not influence his legislative duties. (NNT)