The Senate has slammed the government for scheduling a general debate for the latter half of next month, saying it is a delaying tactic meant to avoid accountability.
The Senate informed the government of its intention to hold a general debate under Section 153 of the constitution, according to Senator Seree Suwanpanont, chairman of the Senate's political development committee.
It came after 98 senators filed a motion last month for a general debate, without a vote, on the government's performance. Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai said the debate could be held sometime after March 20.
But he thought the debate should come sooner. A Senate representative discussed bringing the debate forward with Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsutin, who then settled for March 18.
That was no better, said Sen Seree, adding Mr Somsak cited Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's tight work schedule filled with overseas visits for the government being unable to offer an earlier date.
"It sounds like a tactic to buy time," Sen Seree said.
The Senate has asked members wishing to speak during the debate to sign up before Feb 13. The general debate aims to look at the government's performances in seven areas since it officially declared its policies to parliament on Sept 10 last year.
They pertain to bread and butter issues, preserving justice and law enforcement, stemming runaway energy prices, failing to implement education reform under the new Education Act, neglecting to adequately provide safety for tourists, being unclear about the need to implement a proposed charter amendment and its lack of commitment to follow through with a national strategy.
Sen Seree said the Senate will not conduct the debate in a fierce or melodramatic fashion as it prioritises substance over style.
Direkrit Jenklongtham, deputy chairman of the Senate's political development committee, also accused the government of procrastinating and trying to sidestep accountability.
Public doubts about the government's performance, particularly in implementing key projects, have grown with every passing day. If the policies go ahead without scrutiny, they are in danger of causing irreparable damage to the country, he said.
"When the government gets a request to respond to a general debate, it must drop everything and fully concentrate on preparing its answers," he added.