Democrats say 'no' to debate without vote

The Democrat Party has ruled out a separate parliamentary debate without a vote, saying the opposition should focus on its planned no-confidence motion with a vote.

Satit Wongnongtaey, a Democrat Party deputy leader, said his party had not formally discussed pursuing a general debate without a vote under Section 152 of the constitution.

The proposal was reportedly raised by some People’s Party MPs in response to the government’s decision to delay no-confidence debate until December.

Mr Satit said opposition whips had considered both options two months ago before agreeing to proceed directly with a no-confidence motion under Section 151.

He said the parties had discussed whether to hold a general debate under Section 152 before submitting a no-confidence motion. They concluded that the government’s conduct warranted a direct challenge under Section 151, which allows MPs to seek a vote on whether ministers should remain in office.

He stressed that the opposition had instead agreed to prioritise the no-confidence motion, which has been submitted and scheduled for debate.

The Democrat Party had also settled its debate issues, Mr Satit said. Opposition parties are due to coordinate their topics and speaking time next week.

People’s Party leader and opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut left open the possibility of using Section 152, saying the decision would depend on the government’s response and further discussions.

He confirmed that whips from the three opposition parties had agreed to hold the no-confidence debate from Dec 7 to 11. The delay would give them more time to strengthen their information, he said.

Mr Natthaphong said the opposition had been ready to debate in any week, including November, but would respect the agreement.

He said the intervening period would be used to advance other parliamentary work, including scrutiny of the fiscal 2028 budget. Preliminary budget discussions are due to begin on Nov 5.

Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn, a Chachoengsao MP and Klatham Party spokesman, confirmed his party had requested two hours of speaking time for the no-confidence debate.

He said the party would present issues according to its own agenda.