Opposition Threatens NACC Complaint Against House Speaker Over Committee Rules

Opposition Chief Whip Prasit Watcharaprasin, in his capacity as coordinator of the opposition parties, addressed the case of House Speaker Sophon Sarom, who had explained his new regulations for meetings of the 35 House standing committees. The Speaker claimed the rules resolve redundant problems and do not silence the opposition, adding that if anyone believes he acted wrongly, they can file a complaint with the NACC.

Prasit said the opposition's view differs from the Speaker's approach even after hearing his additional explanation. On substance, the opposition is concerned that requiring a formal committee resolution for every action would hinder the committees' agility and open the door for government MPs — who hold the majority on committees — to block investigations into government-related matters, even when those matters fall within the committees' authority. This concern remains.

On process, Prasit acknowledged preliminary talks were held among the Speaker, the government whip, the opposition whip, and the chairs of all 35 committees, but no consensus was reached. The Speaker had agreed to further consultation before issuing binding regulations, yet the rules were issued without that additional dialogue.

"Today I will issue a letter per the opposition caucus resolution to formally object to these regulations and request formal talks with the Speaker and relevant parties to find a joint way forward," Prasit said.

Asked whether the opposition would file a NACC complaint if the Speaker proceeds with the current regulations, Prasit said the focus is on finding a solution to ensure committees can fully perform their oversight of the government and state agencies. The aim is to set a correct standard not just for this Parliament but for all future ones, regardless of which parties form the government, so that parliamentary mechanisms can effectively oversee the executive in every era.

"As for the challenge to file with relevant agencies — no challenge needed. We have been monitoring all along. If we see information and actions that constitute misconduct, we are ready to exercise our rights through the proper procedures," Prasit said.

Regarding whether reducing the number of standing committees could solve the redundancy issue, Prasit said the People's Party MPs had previously proposed reviewing the number of committees, which is a separate discussable agenda item, but distinct from solving the overlapping-work problem.