Smooth-talking member of Pheu Thai Party asserts straight-forward actions throughout ordeal

In a surprising turn of events, the Deputy Leader of the Democrat Party, Chaichana Dechdecho, announced that the party has unanimously decided to abstain from the vote for the Prime Minister. This decision comes after four Democrat MPs defied the party resolution and voted for Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul.

The four MPs, Romtham Khamnurak, Saranphet Boonyamani, Rachit Sudphum, and Somyot Phlaiduang, voted in favour of Anutin, despite the party resolution calling for abstention. Any Democrat MP who voted differently will need to explain themselves to the public, according to Chaichana Dechdecho.

The actions of these four MPs are seen as weakening party discipline and the democratic system, as stated by Chaichana Dechdecho. In response, an internal committee will be set up by the Democrat Party to review the matter and determine how often such privileges can be exercised.

Meanwhile, Kanchanaburi MP Sakda Wichiensilp, one of the four MPs who defied the party resolution, denied betraying the Pheu Thai Party. Sakda openly declared his support for Anutin on Aug 29, but he stated that he did not know which party would form the government or which way the opposition People's Party would turn when he made his decision.

Sakda, who remains a Pheu Thai member legally as he has not been expelled, believes the number of Pheu Thai members will be higher than reflected in the parliamentary vote if the House is dissolved. He also stated that many in Pheu Thai are uncomfortable and dissatisfied with the party.

There have been reports of some members of Pheu Thai trying to expel others from the party, according to Sakda. However, he rejected accusations of being a political "cobra," alluding to an act of betrayal.

In the parliamentary vote for prime minister, Anutin received 311 votes in favour. The outcome of the vote and the future of the political landscape remain uncertain as parties navigate the complexities of coalition building and shifting allegiances.