BANGKOK, Oct. 8 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's opposition parties filed a formal no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and 17 cabinet ministers on Thursday, accusing the administration of monopolizing state power and undermining democratic institutions.
Led by People's Party leader and leader of the opposition, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, the bloc submitted the seven-page censure motion, signed by 145 opposition lawmakers, to House Speaker Sophon Zaram.
During a press briefing at parliament, Natthaphong said the primary objective of the censure debate is to expose the so-called "Blue Regime," a direct reference to the political machinery associated with Anutin's ruling faction.
"We are seeking a vote of no confidence against the 'Blue Regime' that is currently devouring this country," Natthaphong said.
The motion outlines several critical allegations against the targeted ministers, highlighted by alleged systemic collusion and manipulation in the recent Senate elections, widespread corruption in local administrative examinations, and gross mismanagement of the ongoing national flood crisis.
Representatives from the Democrat Party, speaking on behalf of the five-party opposition coalition, noted that they have requested five days for the debate due to the unprecedented number of ministers being censured.
The parliamentary session for the no-confidence debate is tentatively expected to be scheduled for late October. ■