The Pheu Thai Party is looking to move on after its loss in the prime ministerial election on Friday, pledging to work as a real opposition party that prioritises straightforward politics, Pheu Thai MP Anusorn Iamsa-ard says.
Pheu Thai candidate Chaikasem Nitisiri lost to Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul in a vote in the House on Friday.
The vote was held after the Constitutional Court earlier removed Pheu Thai’s Paetongtarn Shinawatra as prime minister for ethical misconduct.
Mr Anusorn on Saturday addressed this loss, saying: “The Pheu Thai Party is strongly pledging the party will work as a real opposition party that is powerful, strong and will not compromise with any wrongdoing [in government].
“The party knows very well that a real democracy cannot exist if it has no brave and fearless opposition party [in parliament].”
Mr Anusorn said Pheu Thai is ready to apply scrutiny to government policies and decisions while protecting the nation’s interest.
“The Pheu Thai Party will work as an eye that inspects the government at every step,” he said. “The party is ready to oppose any actions that do not benefit the public. We will use facts and information to counter arguments.”
Meanwhile, Ms Paetongtarn, who remains party leader, said on Facebook the party would do its best to check government authority.
“From now on, Pheu Thai will work its best as an opposition party to protect the parliamentary system democratically,” said Ms Paetongtarn.
She said the party will prioritise the needs of Thai citizens with dedication. “I would like to thank everyone for the support,” she said.
“As we know well, the patient needs to make a stand now,” she added. “The party pledges to overcome the current situation together and return with a selfless vision.”
