Pheu Thai MP planning to go under Bhum Jai Thai banner

He told a press conference that stopping him from speaking was undemocratic and meant that he could not carry out his duty as an MP. He said he was only told in the last five minutes of the parliamentary debate that there was no time for him to speak.

Jumpot also denied rumours that he had been bought off by Bhum Jai Thai Party for Bt20 million, saying his transfer had nothing to do with money.

"I have no reason to stay at Pheu Thai," he said, adding that he wanted the party to expel him.

Last week, Jumpot caused a controversy by joining Bhum Jai Thai members during a field visit in Sakon Nakhon wearing the party's shirt. The MP explained that if he were to simply resign Pheu Thai, the government would have to spend Bt11 million on snap elections. He also asked if Pheu Thai was willing to foot this bill.

Election Commissioner Sodsri Satayathum said it was against the election laws for lawmakers to change parties, and that Jumpot would have to wait until the next general elections. However, she said Jumpot had the right to file a complaint with the Constitution Court if he felt unfairly treated or if the party dismissed him.

Meanwhile, villagers from Baan Nong Phai Na Dee in Sakon Nakhon province were preparing to file a libel lawsuit against Pheu Thai Party speaker Prompong Nopparit who said they had been paid off by the Bhum Jai Thai party when the party's executives visited their village.