Bangkok: The House of Representatives was thrown into disarray as the Thai Sang Thai Party proposed competing members for the budget committee, leading to a brief suspension of proceedings. The confusion was sparked during the nomination process for the 2026 budget expenditure committee, where two candidates were unexpectedly put forward by different factions.
According to Thai News Agency, the situation unfolded after Mr. Pakornwut Udompipatsakul, the opposition whip and member of the Prachachon Party, nominated Mr. Chatchawan Phetyathai. Concurrently, Ms. Supaporn Salapsri, an MP from the Thai Sang Thai Party, proposed Mr. Thakorn Tanthasit, resulting in immediate objections. Mr. Pakornwut maintained that the Thai Sang Thai Party had an official endorsement for Mr. Chatchawan as their representative, leading Mr. Thakorn to argue that nominations should originate from within one's own party, causing further confusion and debate.
Dr. Vayo Atsawarungruang, a representative from the Prachachon Party, invoked meeting regulations, suggesting a secret ballot if there were more nominees than available positions. Mr. Pichet Chueamuangphan, the meeting chairman, attempted to mediate, suggesting parties should confer internally before proceeding. The meeting was briefly paused to allow for discussions.
Upon reconvening, Ms. Supaporn withdrew Mr. Thakorn's nomination. Subsequently, Ms. Manop Charoensri, Deputy Minister of Transport, requested to amend the cabinet's committee representation, replacing Mr. Phitsanu Hatthasongkhro with Mr. Thakorn. This resolution appeared to quell the immediate discord, allowing the meeting to progress.