Bangkok: Captain Anudit Nakornthap, Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Kla Tham Party's Strategy Committee, has chosen not to comment on whether Thammanat Prompao will be the leading candidate for Prime Minister from the Kla Tham Party. However, he emphasized the party's readiness to introduce its MP candidates in December, aiming to compete in all 400 districts.
According to Thai News Agency, Captain Anudit highlighted the party's confidence due to its track record and defended MP Chanonpat, whose legal case remains pending. He noted that other parties also have MPs facing legal challenges, reinforcing the notion that such issues are not unique to Kla Tham. Captain Anudit detailed the party's strategy to increase its parliamentary presence, citing the impactful work of the Kla Dharma Party ministers in various ministries, including Education, Social Development and Human Security, Tourism and Sports, and Agriculture and Cooperatives. The recent rise in agricultural product prices and advancements in tourism and the SEA Games preparations were presented as evidence of the party's effective governance.
Captain Anudit addressed the Bhumjaithai Party's announcement of its prime ministerial candidates, confirming that Kla Tham will also submit its candidates as required by law. The selection process will involve the party's executive committee, focusing on candidates who meet public expectations. He urged patience regarding the decision on whether the candidates will be insiders or outsiders, advising the public to await formal announcements.
When questioned about Thammanat Prompao's candidacy, Captain Anudit reiterated that the decision lies with the party's executive committee, advising against speculation until the committee's formal announcement. Regarding the potential impact of ongoing issues on the party's electoral performance, Captain Anudit expressed that crises present opportunities, and the party has addressed public and opposition queries with factual responses.
On the subject of MP Chanonpat Naksua, whose assets were seized by the Anti-Money Laundering Office, Captain Anudit maintained that Mr. Chanonpat should clarify his case through the justice system. He emphasized the principle of presumed innocence until legal proceedings conclude and stated that MPs facing legal scrutiny should not resign prematurely.
Finally, Captain Anudit commented on the opposition's no-confidence motion and the movement for House dissolution. He acknowledged the opposition's right to scrutinize the government but called for an appropriateness review, considering the government's recent four-month tenure and the joint Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Prachachon Party. He suggested the need to evaluate whether such motions genuinely benefit the public.