Bangkok: Pol. Gen. Seripisut Temiyaves, leader of the Seri Ruam Thai Party and a party-list MP, has firmly stated that he will not support Anutin Charnvirakul for the position of Prime Minister. He criticized the inclusion of his name in coalition discussions as impolite and confirmed his decision not to join the government. While Seripisut refrained from disclosing his preferred candidate for the premiership, he made it clear that Anutin would not receive his backing.
According to Thai News Agency, Seripisut, who has recently resumed his parliamentary duties after a two-year hiatus, emphasized that his absence was not due to laziness but a deliberate decision to allow others to serve in his stead. Despite his break from parliament, Seripisut maintained his active involvement in political matters outside the legislative arena.
In a significant move, Seripisut announced plans to submit a letter to the Supreme Court, urging the Chief Justice to appoint a panel to investigate the legalities surrounding a petition for a royal pardon for Thaksin Shinawatra. He highlighted a Supreme Court ruling which sentenced Thaksin to imprisonment, pointing out discrepancies in legal procedures. As a former National Police Chief, Seripisut raised concerns over police appointments and alleged bribery related to Thaksin's return to Thailand.
Previously, a petition was lodged with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate figures including Thaksin Shinawatra and others. Seripisut aims to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court, questioning the legality of the pardon request process. The petitioners argue that the Justice Minister of the time should have overseen the process, and seek to summon Wissanu and Thaksin for questioning. If found unlawful, the petitioners demand imprisonment for any violations.
Seripisut expressed his commitment to advocating for fairness in the justice system through legislative measures. However, he acknowledged the challenges of effecting change with limited parliamentary support. He dismissed rumors of joining a coalition government with the Bhumjaithai Party, condemning the mention of his name in such discussions.
Commenting on the Economic Party of Gen. Rangsi Kitiyanasap, Seripisut criticized their anti-corruption stance as unfulfilled promises. He reiterated his decision not to vote for Anutin Charnvirakul and assessed the qualifications of prime ministerial candidates from larger parties, without revealing his choice.