Thailand's ruling party leader quits

BANGKOK, October 4 (TNA) - After resigning from his positions as a deputy prime minister and interior minister last week, Yongyuth Wichaidit has decided to quit as the leader and a list MP of Thailand's ruling Pheu Thai Party, effective from October 4. Yongyuth announced the decision at a press conference on Thursday, citing his personal reasons, but insisting on his constitutional qualifications to hold political positions. Yongyugh said he had informed the decision to Pheu Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who respected his decision, noting that he will not abandon the ruling party but keep supporting it after leaving its top post and a list MP. The ex-Pheu Thai Party leader acknowledged, however, that he would like to stop criticisms over the alleged violation of laws and failure to comply with the rule of laws aired against the ruling party by opponents. (TNA)