Pheu Thai Party (PT) leader Julapun Amornvivat has dismissed concerns over government instability, saying a dinner planned for coalition leaders on Sunday is intended to improve communication and coordinate government work, not prepare for a no-confidence debate.
Mr Julapun said the prime minister would host leaders of coalition parties at his private residence, but there were no plans to discuss a cabinet reshuffle.
“We are working together as a coalition government for the people,” he said, adding that concerns raised by the media and the public about the government’s stability were unfounded.
The dinner would provide an opportunity for ministers and MPs to discuss their work in a more relaxed atmosphere, he said. Some deputy ministers may have limited opportunities to speak directly with the prime minister, while coordination in parliament was also essential to ensure government legislation proceeds smoothly.
Mr Julapun denied the gathering was being organised to prepare for an anticipated opposition no-confidence motion.
“We have not prepared anything in particular. It is up to the opposition what questions it wants to ask, and we are ready to answer them,” he said.
The opposition is expected to raise several controversial issues, including alleged collusion in the Senate election, with key politicians reportedly on its censure radar, including Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.
Mr Julapun said Pheu Thai had already pursued the Senate election case to the extent of its authority when it previously led the government and had handed the matter over to state agencies and independent bodies. He said the party must respect the investigation and accountability mechanisms now handling the case.
“Pheu Thai has no special information,” Mr Julapun said, rejecting suggestions that the party was withholding evidence. All available information had already been submitted to investigative bodies, he added.
Regarding a possible no-confidence vote, he said Pheu Thai had yet to determine how its MPs would vote, although he expected party members to remain united. Mr Julapun also said there were no discussions about replacing Pheu Thai ministers. The coalition government had been in office for only about four months, he said, and ministers needed time to demonstrate whether they could deliver on policies and address public concerns.