Political Intrigue: Delay in Appointing New First Deputy Speaker After Padipat Suntiphada’s Exit

The House of Representatives finds itself in a bit of a pickle as the selection of a new first deputy speaker has hit a snag. This predicament arose following the departure of former MP Padipat Suntiphada, who was ousted via a Constitutional Court ruling last week. It seems the Bhumjaithai Party, which is entitled to the position as part of its coalition agreement, has yet to throw a hat into the ring.

Chief government whip Wisut Chainaroon revealed on Tuesday that the eagerly awaited selection would not be wrapped up this week. The coalition’s second biggest player, Bhumjaithai, was anticipated to name its deputy leader and Ang Thong MP, Paradorn Prissanananthakul, for the position. However, until a candidate’s name graces the official list, this crucial matter remains stranded on the House’s business agenda.

“We’re well aware of who the presumptive candidate is,” said Mr. Wisut, who candidly admitted there’s no need to rush an already predictable outcome. This statement lends some credence to the drama as rumors swirl, indicating that internal negotiations and inter-party dynamics might be delaying the process.

Notably, Mr. Wisut, hailing from the Pheu Thai party, was quick to dismiss any chatter about a fallout between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai. Reports had suggested a prospective trade-off where the Pheu Thai Party eyeing the first deputy’s spot might push for swapping places. The second deputy speaker’s post, currently occupied by Pheu Thai MP Pichet Chuamuangphan, would see shifts if Pheu Thai were to covet the first deputy slot.

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai secretary-general Sorawong Thienthong affirmatively stated on Tuesday that Pichet would remain firm in his current second deputy post and underscored that the first deputy position was Bhumjaithai’s to fill.

Fueling the intrigue, speculation also emerged about a possible swap between the House speaker’s role and a cabinet seat involving the Prachachat Party. Yet, this has been unequivocally dismissed. It was back in the thick of coalition-making last year that House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, originating from Prachachat, was chosen to resolve deadlocked negotiations.

From Bhumjaithai’s perspective, leader Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized that the matter of filling the vacant seat rests squarely within the House of Representatives’ purview, and not that of the government. The party’s secretary-general, Chaichanok Chidchob, handles the ongoing situation.

On the opposition front, chief whip Pakornwut Udompipatskul remarked that opposition parties had not deliberated about contesting for the deputy speaker’s post. However, he signaled an open door for the People’s Party (PP) — the reformed face of the defunct Move Forward Party (MFP). Pakornwut nonchalantly suggested that the PP, having nothing to lose, could vie for the seat even if it doesn’t end up victorious.

As the House awaits a candidate from Bhumjaithai, one cannot help but be enthralled by this unfolding political saga. The drumbeat of speculation and behind-the-scenes maneuvering adds a tinge of suspense to the routine parliamentary procedures. Whether the anticipated nomination will proceed seamlessly or morph into another round of political chess is something only time can unravel.