Prachachat party leader Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, 79, was selected as the new House speaker this morning (Tuesday). His candidacy was uncontested, after Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat nominated him.

According to selection procedure, when only one candidate is nominated, he or she is automatically selected.

Wan Muhamad ’s selection, which is yet to be endorsed by His Majesty the King in the form of a Royal Command, will pave the way for the House speaker, in his capacity as the president of the parliament, to call a joint session of the House and Senate to elect a new prime minister.

After his selection this morning, Wan Muhamad, in his brief vision speech to MPs, vowed to perform his duties with impartiality, honesty and transparency, in compliance with the Constitution, laws and parliamentary regulations.

He also vowed to adhere to His Majesty the King’s advice, given yesterday when he presided over the official opening of the parliamentary session following the May 14 general election.

Wan Muhamad said he will consult with his two deputies on guidelines for their performance of legislative duties, to enable all MPs to do their jobs to their utmost capability in the public interest.

He also promised to attach importance to all House committees, in their duties to address public grievances, in improving their livelihoods and in promoting relations and cooperation with the parliaments of other countries.

The House speaker-elect said that he will support and promote parliament’s TV and radio stations as the mouthpieces of the people in the promotion of democracy and will improve the efficiency of the King Prajadhipok’s Institute in the promotion of legislative affairs.

Selection of the two deputy speakers will follow the same selection procedure.