Tongsak Ready for Two-Round Opposition Debate, Cites Busy Schedule
Deputy PM Tongsak Thongsi stated at Government House on Oct 29, 2026, that the cabinet is ready to address both Article 152 and 151 debates.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Deputy PM Tongsak Thongsi acknowledges the opposition's right to file Article 152 and 151 debates
- The government confirms full readiness to address both parliamentary sessions
- Calls for understanding regarding the heavy schedules of the Prime Minister and ministers
Deputy Prime Minister Tongsak Thongsi addressed media reports regarding the opposition's plan to initiate a general debate without a vote under Article 152 alongside a no-confidence debate under Article 151, expected to take place between December 7-11, 2026. He affirmed that the government holds no objections and remains fully prepared to answer all inquiries from lawmakers.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Speaking at Government House at 10:00 AM on October 29, 2026, Tongsak noted that while he had heard the news without specific details yet, he considers it a standard constitutional procedure allowing the opposition to exercise its oversight role. Whichever article the questions fall under, the administration is ready to respond accordingly without any issues.
"Article 151 is a no-confidence debate with a vote, while Article 152 is a general debate without a vote."
Tongsak Thongsi
When reporters questioned whether holding both debate rounds back-to-back meant they should be combined into a single session, Tongsak stated that the government cannot speak on behalf of the opposition. He emphasized that the two articles serve completely different constitutional purposes and require separate approaches from the executive branch.
The utilization of Article 152 for a general debate and Article 151 for a censure motion under Thailand's 2017 Constitution represents the primary mechanisms for parliamentary oversight. Scheduling both consecutively in December 2026 significantly increases the political workload for the cabinet, requiring ministers to balance ongoing state administrative duties with extensive parliamentary preparation.
Nevertheless, the Deputy Prime Minister concluded by appealing for understanding from the opposition regarding the Prime Minister and cabinet members' heavily packed schedules, while reiterating the government's steadfast commitment to fulfilling its duty to explain policies and actions to the parliament.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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