Ex-premier Chuan, the candidate proposed by the pro-junta Phalang Pracharat Party, secured 258 votes to 235 for Pheu Thai nominee Sompong Amornvivat. A prolonged debate between the two blocs led to pro tem speaker Chai Chidchob, the most senior MP and former house speaker, adjourning the house. After a two-hour break, the house voted on the first motion to decide whether or not to reschedule the election of speaker. Finally, the house voted 248 to 246 with two absentions to elect the speaker on Saturday. The house hence had to vote to choose between Democrat Chuan and Pheu Thai’s Sompong.

Source: The Nation Bangkok May 25, 2019 12:22 UTC