Thailand’s former constitution writer Borwornsak Uwanno suggests that Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat seek a ruling from the Constitutional Court over parliament’s decision, by a majority vote on Wednesday, that Pita’s re-nomination falls foul of its Rule 41.
He said that he feels sorry for Thailand and is upset with the MPs who joined senators to vote against Pita, noting that the Constitution has a clause specifying the process of the selection of the prime minister, which cannot be overruled by Rule 41.
“Even though you (MPs) are in the opposition camp, you should know when to shed the role of the opposition and do the right thing,” said Borwornsak, adding that parliament’s decision on Wednesday is not yet final.
He suggests that Pita, without mentioning his name, challenge parliament’s decision by asking the ombudsman to seek a ruling from the Constitutional Court and, if the ombudsman refuses to do so, he should approach the court directly.
Pita’s re-nomination bid was scuttled by 394:312 votes. Eight abstained and one did not vote.
Move Forward’s party-list MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn said in his Facebook post today (Thursday) that the party will keep fighting, adjusting its strategies, and becoming more discreet “No matter how many times we fumble, we will get up again.”
“We are close to the finish line, beyond the point of giving up,” he vowed.
Pita was reported to be in high spirits, despite his defeat in parliament yesterday. He is spending time with his family on a break in Chiang Mai.
The party’s negotiation team, led by party secretary-general Chaithawat Tulathon and Sirikanya Tansakul, is due to hold a meeting today at parliament, before meeting their counterparts from the Pheu Thai party.
