Deputy House Speaker Padipat Santhiphada has announced that he will be joining the Fair Party after his expulsion from the Move Forward Party (MFP).
On 10 October 2023, Deputy House Speaker Padipat Suntiphada, a former MP of the MFP, told the press that he has decided to join the Fair Party after being expelled from the MFP. He was expelled on 28 September on the grounds that the MFP was committed to work as an opposition party, and the constitution stipulates that opposition MPs cannot hold House Speaker or the Deputy House Speaker positions.
Padipat stated that the Fair Party’s ideology fits with his beliefs, adding that the party is willing to support his commitment to promote an effective and transparent parliament.
The Deputy House Speaker reiterated that he would maintain neutrality in parliament and treat all political parties equally. He said he might not participate in party meetings since he has to work collaboratively with the House Speaker and the Second Deputy House Speaker. He affirmed that he will continue to work as he did before, regardless of which party he belongs to.
He noted that he has not yet officially joined the Fair Party because he needs a termination letter from the Election Commission. The letter is expected to be issued soon.
When asked whether he would run in the next election as a candidate for the party, he said he has not made any long-term decisions yet.
Party leader Pitipong Temcharoen stated that Padipat needs to follow the standard process of joining the party. He also mentioned that due to his role as the Deputy House Speaker, Padipat is not eligible to be a member of the party’s executive committee. Pitipong added that he will be a part of Padipat’s consultant team in the parliament
Fair Party MP Kannavee Suebsang said that the party’s work is clear and straightforward. A proactive opposition party, it will closely scrutinise the government to ensure the most effective administration of the country. Kannavee added that the party is not a branch of the MFP, as has been suggested.
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