On Monday, Democrat list-MP Ong-art Klampaiboon announced his party’s intention to begin impeachment proceedings against House Speaker Somsak Kiatsuranont.
This latest internecine spat began during a confrontation over three amendment bills, for which the Democrats had requested another 60 days in order to scrutinize. Apparently Somsak ended last Wednesday’s parliamentary session before the legislative body could consider this movement for an extended period of consideration.
According to standard House procedure, 15 days are allowed to give committee scrutiny to new legislation. Rather than considering an extension, Somsak ended Wednesday’s session early and summarily dismissed the motion.
He then announced that the House would not meet between April 10 and 17, in deference to the Songkran holiday.
Somsak has denied that he violated any laws, seeing as he allowed for the customary, 15-day period for the scrutiny of bills.
According to the Bangkok Post, the Democrats may file a motion for Somsak’s impeachment when the parliament reconvenes on April 18.
