BANGKOK: Move Forward deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakun (pic) said it would be a “positive dimension” for Thai politics were she to be named the leader of the new party to succeed Move Forward if the Constitutional Court orders its dissolution on Aug 7.
Opposition leader Move Forward Party was accused by the Election Commission of violating the Political Party Act by behaviour that the EC deemed as an attempt to dissolve the constitutional monarchy and a hostile act against the monarchy.
As the party members await the verdict, a rumour has surfaced that Sirikanya, who is also a party-listed MP, has been chosen to lead a new unnamed party that Move Forward has prepared as a new home for its MPs in the event it is disbanded.
“It could be a positive new dimension if Thailand has more female political leaders,” Sirikanya said on Monday (July 29) when asked about the rumour.
“It would not only represent the people from all sides, genders, and ages, but it could also bring new perspectives to politics that may differ from the past when most political leaders were men.”
She added that the decision to appoint the new leader will ultimately depend on the party.
“Aug 7 will mark a crucial decision for the Move Forward Party. We insist that no matter what happens, the party will continue to move forward,” said the deputy leader.
Sirikanya added that she is not concerned about another lese majeste case under the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), adding that she has prepared a statement but the NACC has yet to summon her.
Sirikanya was among 44 Move Forward MPs who signed the draft to amend Article 112, or the lese majeste law, of the Criminal Code, which was one of the party’s campaign promises.
The NACC is investigating their action as a serious violation of ethical standards for MPs under Article 234 (1) of the Constitution.
If the NACC finds them guilty, these MPs could be banned from contesting in future elections for life, as well as from voting for 10 years. - The Nation/ANN
