Pheu Thai Leader Says PM Vote Is Expected Within Next Two Weeks

Pheu Thai leader Chonlanan Srikaew said that parliament is expected to vote on the Prime Minister within the next two weeks, adding that his party and the wider pro-democracy coalition maintains its support for Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat. Chonlanan brushed away speculation that Pheu Thai could enter a secret deal with some other party and reiterate that the only plan is for Pita to become the next Thai Prime Minister.

• It remains unclear how many Senate votes could be cast for Pita's candidacy. Senators Somchai Sawangkarn and Seree Suwanpanont appeared to be suggesting a way for the MFP to negotiate with the upper house, as they advised that the party should reconsider its plan to amend the lese-majeste law.
• Meanwhile, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has stepped down as leader of the Prachachart Party to assume the role of House Speaker. He will be replaced by former football official Worawi Makudi. Wan Noor became House Speaker as part of a compromise deal ending a weeks-long dispute between the MFP and Pheu Thai.