Bangkok: Abhisit Vejjajiva, the leader of the Democrat Party, led a group of MPs to register at the parliament, while addressing rumors of a party split and giving a tour of the parliamentary facilities. Abhisit, returning to parliament with no immediate invitation to join the government, expressed his readiness to quickly address the nation's challenges.
According to Thai News Agency, Abhisit, a list-based MP, guided his party colleagues, including list-based MPs such as Korn Chatikavanij, Kardee Leowpairoj, and others, to the Secretariat of the House of Representatives to report for duty. Alongside them were constituency MPs from Songkhla and Trang. Mr. Chaichana Dejdecho, a list-based MP, also made an appearance despite having reported a day earlier.
Following the registration, Abhisit and his team toured the Parliament building, marking his first experience working there. The tour included various areas such as the press conference room, the Suriyan Meeting Room, and party offices. Mr. Chaichana led the group, humorously pointing out an alternate exit, which prompted banter among the media and Abhisit.
During interactions, Abhisit greeted visiting students and took photos with them. He later mentioned that the purpose of the visit was to familiarize themselves with the work environment and areas within the parliament.
Reflecting on his return, Abhisit admitted he had not anticipated being back in this setting. He emphasized his commitment to legislative duties, whether in opposition or as part of the government, and stressed the urgency of forming a government to tackle pressing global and domestic issues. He highlighted the importance of economic direction, energy management, and agricultural pricing in restoring public confidence.
In terms of foreign affairs, Abhisit affirmed the appropriateness of the current caretaker government's stance, advocating for peace and clarity on energy and economic issues. He noted that key ministers remain active in restoring public trust.
Addressing the party's non-commitment to fully declare as an opposition, Abhisit explained it was a matter of political etiquette and relationships with other parties, like the Bhumjaithai Party. He acknowledged the diversity within the party as a strength, with decisions being guided by the party's executive committee.
Abhisit also spoke on the need for improvements in the election process to prevent future issues and expressed the party's readiness to vote on the nomination for Speaker of the House, maintaining that decisions on parliamentary votes are collective within the party.
The absence of Chuan Leekpai, a party-list MP, was noted as he had other commitments, arriving later in the day to report.