Mongkol Surasajja stood at the heart of the parliamentary chamber, waves and smiles marking his triumphant election as the new Senate Speaker on July 23. Formerly the governor of Buri Ram, Mongkol secured a sweeping victory with 159 votes out of 200. It was a moment captured in time by the press (Photo: Chanat Katanyu).
The buzz of the newly-crowned Senate leadership carried well beyond the vote itself, as Mongkol and his deputies, Gen Kriangkrai Srirak and Boonsong Noisophon, took their oaths in a solemn ceremony the following Saturday. There was an air of anticipation as they received the royal command that formally ushered them into their roles; a formality witnessed by a gathering of senators and high-ranking officials. The royal command, held by Ms. Natjaree Anantasilp—the cabinet secretary-general—was ceremoniously conveyed to parliament, and with it, Mongkol’s tenure as Senate Speaker officially began.
Ms. Natjaree’s reading of the royal proclamation resonated within the grand walls of the parliament hall, confirming Mongkol, an experienced administrator and former Buri Ram governor, as the new Senate Speaker. Gen Kriangkrai, known for his advisory role to Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, took the mantle of first deputy speaker, while Boonsong, a seasoned former election commissioner, stepped up as second deputy speaker. The trio’s induction signaled the final act of the appointment process, launching them into their legislative duties with immediate effect.
The path to leadership had been defined by rigorous elections. Mongkol’s prominent endorsement by fellow senators, garnering 159 out of 200 votes, was complemented by Gen Kriangkrai’s 150 votes and Boonsong’s 167 votes—solidifying their roles within the upper legislative chamber. This three-tier election process, weaving through district, provincial, and national levels on staggered days, reflected the intricate dance of Thai parliamentary procedure.
Intriguingly, the political affiliations within the Senate have long been the subject of scrutiny. The so-called “blue bloc”, affiliated with the Bhumjaithai Party, holds notable sway among the three Senate factions. Meanwhile, some senators’ allegiances tie back to the ruling Pheu Thai Party, symbolized by the “red” camp. The “orange” group, connected to the main opposition Move Forward Party (MFP), rounds out the intricate web of political connections.
The voting results, endorsed by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, and later presented to His Majesty the King, reflected not just a political choice but a melding of ambitions and allegiances.
On the momentous Saturday post-ceremony, speculation was rife about the newfound Senate leadership and their potential political maneuvers. Mr. Mongkol, however, remained poised and articulate, distancing himself from the swirling rumors about senators’ allegiances. He emphasized his lifelong commitment to public service, acknowledging the vast network of people he has met throughout his career. “To say I am not acquainted with or never close to anyone would be untrue,” he remarked with a candid smile.
Nevertheless, Mongkol was clear about the boundaries of his legislative responsibilities. “When it comes to legislative duty, it’s a whole different story. The duty must be performed in compliance with ethics, the law, and tradition,” he asserted. His stance offered a reassuring nod to the core tenets of governance, underscoring that personal connections don’t overshadow parliamentary integrity.
In light of ongoing constitutional amendment debates, Mongkol chose to hold his cards close to his chest. Declining to comment on his approach to such a pivotal issue, he instead underscored a vow shared with his deputies: a commitment to protecting and preserving the nation, religion, and the monarchy. The silent stance on amendments perhaps hints at the layered complexities of his new role and the strategic considerations poised to shape his tenure ahead.
As the echoes of their swearing-in resounded, the new Senate leadership embarked on their legislative journey, eyes steadfastly on the future, with democracy’s tapestry ever-evolving under their watch.
Mongkol’s appointment is highly controversial. The Senate is supposed to be non-partisan, but we all know where his loyalties lie!
You can’t deny his experience though. He’s done well as the governor.
Experience as a politician doesn’t guarantee ethical conduct. Look at his connections!
Exactly! Experience isn’t everything when corruption runs deep.
What’s wrong with someone from the Bhumjaithai Party holding a top position? It reflects the will of the people.
The Senate isn’t elected by the people; it’s appointed. Big difference.
Samara, it’s about maintaining impartiality, and Mongkol’s ties don’t help with that.
I think Mongkol deserves a chance. His commitment to tradition and ethics could bring back some trust in the system.
But will he stand up against the constitutional amendments? That’s the real question.
Exactly. His silence on that is pretty concerning.
He might be waiting for the right moment. He just got the position; strategies take time.
The whole Senate system needs reform. It’s just a puppet show for the powerful elites.
Thailand’s political scene is way too complicated. Hard to say if Mongkol will make any real difference.
You’re right, but every small change can contribute to a larger movement.
If only those ‘small changes’ actually led to something good. Mostly they just add up to more of the same.
The power struggles between parties are ruining the nation. We need leaders like Mongkol to put the country first.
It’s naive to think that Mogkol isn’t part of those power struggles. He’s deeply entrenched in the system.
Maybe so, but I still believe he can bring balance. Sometimes an insider can change things more effectively.
Insiders often get swallowed by the system rather than change it.
Gen Kriangkrai and Boonsong as deputies is a strong team. This could signal some real legislative accomplishments.
If by accomplishments you mean more control for the ruling elites, then sure.
I wonder how this will affect foreign policy. Thailand’s position in ASEAN could be influenced by these leaders.
Foreign policy is one thing, but what about economic reforms? That’s what matters most to everyday Thais.
Economic reforms won’t happen without political stability, which seems unlikely given the current divide.
Political stability is tricky. Mongkol needs to focus on building bridges between the factions.
As much as I hope for change, I think we’re in for more of the same old politics. Time will tell, I guess.
It’s up to us to push for accountability. If we don’t demand better, nothing will change.
Absolutely. Public pressure can make a huge difference.
True, but people are tired. It feels like we’re hitting a wall.
Fascinating how Mongkol emphasized ethics and tradition. But actions speak louder than words.
And when it comes to actions, politicians often fall short. Mongkol has a lot to prove.
Here’s hoping he stands up for democracy and doesn’t give in to pressures from the political elite.
Don’t hold your breath. The political elite have a firm grip on the Senate.
The ceremony was just a show. Real change happens behind closed doors, and we rarely see it.
Such cynicism doesn’t help. Leaders need our support to enact actual change.
Trust but verify, Mary. Support is one thing, blind faith is another.
It’s the same story every time. New leadership, same problems. When will we learn?
Negative thinking isn’t going to help Thailand move forward. Every new leader deserves at least a chance.
They’ve had chances, James. Lots of them. And here we are.