The newly elected Senate Speaker, Mongkol Surasajja, and his two deputies were sworn in yesterday. However, the speaker remained silent on his stance regarding the parliament’s ongoing push for constitutional amendments. Mr. Mongkol, along with his deputies—Gen Kriangkrai Srirak and Boonsong Noisophon—received a royal command that formally inaugurated them into their roles during a ceremony held in the parliament.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of numerous senators and high-ranking officials, who were there to witness the royal command delivered by Natjaree Anantasilp, the cabinet secretary-general. Ms. Natjaree read out the command, officially appointing Mr. Mongkol, a former Buri Ram governor, as the new Senate speaker. Gen Kriangkrai, formerly an advisor to Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, was named the first deputy speaker, while Mr. Boonsong, previously an election commissioner, was designated as the second deputy speaker. This swearing-in ceremony marked the official commencement of their duties.
Last week, Mr. Mongkol was elected as the Senate speaker by his fellow senators, securing 159 out of 200 votes. Gen Kriangkrai received 150 votes, and Mr. Boonsong garnered 167 votes. The speakership election consisted of a three-tier, intra- and inter-professional voting process conducted at district, provincial, and national levels on distinct days. This intricate electoral structure underscored the importance and gravity of the appointments.
The so-called “blue” bloc, largely representing the Bhumjaithai Party, is perceived as the most significant faction in the newly constituted Upper House. Additionally, some senators are rumored to have affiliations with the “red” camp, which is closely linked to the ruling Pheu Thai Party, while the “orange” group maintains strong ties with the main opposition, Move Forward Party (MFP).
Following last week’s voting results, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin presented these results to His Majesty the King for royal endorsement, thereby formalizing the appointments.
Emerging from yesterday’s ceremony, Mr. Mongkol addressed the pervasive speculations concerning senators’ political affiliations and their perceived closeness to political figures. Having spent his entire career in civil service, Mr. Mongkol acknowledged having met many people, making it implausible to claim he was never acquainted with anyone.
“However, when it comes to the legislative duty, it’s an entirely different matter. Such duties must be performed in adherence to ethics, the law, and tradition,” Mr. Mongkol asserted.
He emphasized that he and his deputies have pledged to protect and preserve the nation, religion, and the monarch. Despite this robust declaration, Mr. Mongkol refrained from commenting on his approach to handling the constitutional amendment issue, which continues to be championed by certain lawmakers. The path ahead seems lined with cautious deliberation and a commitment to ethical governance.
Why would they elect someone who won’t even take a stance on constitutional amendments?
Maybe he’s trying to avoid picking sides too early? Could be a smart move.
I get that, but leaders should have clear opinions. This seems wishy-washy to me.
Leadership sometimes requires strategic silence. This could allow him to gauge the situation more comprehensively before weighing in.
He’s playing politics. Typical!
It’s interesting how this ‘blue bloc’ has such a significant influence now. Should we be worried?
They’re a political majority; it’s natural for them to have a say. Whether to worry depends on their policies.
Any large faction can be dangerous if not kept in check. Let’s see if democracy holds up.
Good point, but with the ‘red’ and ‘orange’ factions also in play, it might balance out.
I’m tired of these career politicians pretending to be neutral. We need fresh faces!
Experience counts for a lot in politics. Fresh faces are important, but let’s not discount the value of experience.
They’re all the same. New faces will eventually become career politicians too.
Perhaps, but new perspectives could bring much-needed change.
It’s nice to see traditions and ethical values being upheld. Hopefully, this isn’t just lip service.
The Senate speaker’s silence on constitutional amendments is concerning. We need transparency!
Tactical silence can be a form of transparency, revealing nothing yet preparing for much.
That’s a ridiculous justification. Transparency means being open and honest.
Exactly! We deserve to know where our leaders stand on key issues.
Let’s give them the benefit of the doubt. They’ve just started.
I’m confused about the voting process. Can anyone explain it in simpler terms?
It’s a multi-tier voting system: the initial voting happens at the district level, then at provincial level, and finally at the national level.
Think of it as a filtration process, to ensure only the most suitable candidates make it to the top.
Thanks for explaining! Sounds complicated but thorough.
Why is everyone so focused on the constitutional amendments? Isn’t there more to governance?
Constitutional amendments are fundamental. They shape the entire governance framework.
Fair point. But other issues need attention too, right?
The swearing-in ceremony seemed overly grandiose. Focus more on action, not show!
I find it interesting that no one is talking about the two deputies. They could have significant roles.
You’re right. Sometimes the deputies are the real power brokers.
Exactly! We should be keeping an eye on them too.
This whole pomp and ceremony is a waste of time. Get to work already!
How does this impact the ordinary citizens of Thailand?
It could impact policy direction significantly, affecting everything from the economy to civil rights.
That makes sense. Then it’s crucial who these leaders are.
Mongkol’s election by a landslide could mean he’s well-respected or that the process is rigged. Either way, interesting.
Let’s be honest, does anyone truly believe any of these officials will make a difference?
Cynicism won’t help anyone. Some officials do genuinely care and try to implement positive changes.
Seeing is believing. Call me when something actually changes.