Deputy Transport Minister Backs Government to Clear Scrutiny
Deputy Transport Minister Siripong dismissed opposition plans to raise Senate voting concerns in a no-confidence debate, calling allegations unsubstantiated and routine political criticism while asserting the government can defend itself on
Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angsakulkiartikul, acting deputy leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, responded on August 16 to opposition plans to raise the Senate vote issue in a no-confidence debate. He dismissed concerns as routine opposition criticism, saying he has not witnessed the alleged misconduct. Regarding claims by former Senate candidate Somnuk Suchaithanavanich that candidates were asked to sign resignation letters in advance to ensure party-line voting, Siripong dismissed the allegation, noting the accuser is unknown and lacks supporting evidence. He argued that raising accusations without proof reflects current political practice and dismissed it as not a serious concern for the government to address. Siripong added that the government can explain all other opposition attacks, citing the local administrative corruption cases dating back to 2019, which the current government discovered and pursued following the evidence. He pointed to the government's emergency loan decree as proof of direct benefit to citizens, not disguised economic stimulus like previous administrations used. Regarding government coalition stability, Siripong confirmed there are no voice-count problems and coalition parties work well together. He noted that while some parties wish to join the government, formal discussions have not yet occurred outside the existing coalition partners' own consultations on resolving public issues.
