Nine MPs cost us millions by quitting
Play
Nine Democrat MPs, led by the now-former deputy party leader, Suthep Thaugsuban, have resigned as MPs to lead a civil-disobedience programme against the amnesty bill and, now, against the government. I have no problems with their leading such a campaign.
But by resigning, they have necessitated by-elections to fill their seats, which will cost us taxpayers about Bt10 million per seat – some Bt90 million in all. Other candidates must also incur campaign costs – all because of those who chose to abandon their sworn duties as MP.
Those who resigned should be held accountable for the consequences. Yingluck should propose a bill whereby any MP who resigns must pay for the cost of the by-election to fill his seat and the campaign costs for, say, two candidates from parties other than his own to provide alternatives for voters. An exception could be made for those who resigned due to genuine health reasons.
MPs should take public duties, and public monies, seriously.
Burin Kantabutra
Bangkok
