Chuwit plans to take Parliament by storm

Published on February 11, 2005

Chat Thai Party deputy leader Chuwit Kamolvisit yesterday vowed to work as a new-style opposition member after winning a House seat through the party-list system.

Chuwit has grand plans for his parliamentary debut.

“I will work as an opposition member by adhering to my work style of building up a network of support from outside Parliament in order to scrutinise the government,” he said.

He said he would work with the media and civic groups because the number of opposition lawmakers was insufficient to ensure effective checks on the government.

To start, he said, he had opened a post office box for complaints and tip-offs from the public. Grievances can be sent to PO Box 11, Din Daeng, Bangkok 10407.

“My complaint box is similar to the prime minister’s box and I believe I will get more tangible information than that sent to the government,” he added.

After the new House is convened, he said he would try to get a spot on the House committee on police affairs.

He also portrayed himself an outspoken lawmaker, succeeding veteran politicians like Samak Sundaravej and Chalerm Yoobamrung, neither of whom ran in the general election.

“On the day I report for work, I will carry both a bathtub and a coffin. Upon entering Parliament, I am to smash the bathtub before lying in the coffin,” he said.

He said his planned stunt was meant to signify that he had abandoned his massage-parlour business and has instead embarked on a political career.

Post your comment to this story here