Opposition, Cabinet Deadlocked on No-Confidence Debate Time
Opposition and government whips remain deadlocked over the time allocation for a no-confidence debate targeting 18 cabinet ministers. The opposition demands five days, citing the need to address extensive allegations, while the Cabinet insists three days is the limit. Further negotiations are scheduled for October 22.
Prachachon Party list MP Rangsiman Rome told reporters after a meeting of the House coordination committee (whips) that no conclusion has been reached on the date and time allocation for the general debate and no-confidence vote against 18 ministers individually under Section 151. First Deputy House Speaker Mallika Jirapawanich will convene further discussions on October 22 at 6:00 PM.
Rome explained the sticking point: the opposition wants five days, but the Cabinet says five days is not possible. If negotiations require reducing that figure or compressing the schedule, both sides will need to discuss and adjust. He noted that during the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration, debates covering 10-11 ministers took roughly 42-45 hours. This time there are 18 ministers with numerous allegations, requiring coverage of every issue and every minister.
Asked whether a four-day compromise might work, Rome said all sides are seeking middle ground but have not yet found it. Whether the October 22 meeting yields a resolution remains to be seen.
