The opposition People’s Party has announced its support for the Bhumjaithai Party to lead the next government in Thailand, a significant development that may resolve a prolonged political deadlock. This decision comes in the wake of the sacking of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, whose removal by the judiciary has left the ruling Pheu Thai Party scrambling for stability.
The People’s Party’s endorsement of Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, marks a shift in the political landscape. The People’s Party controls nearly a third of the seats in the lower house of parliament, bolstering the Bhumjaithai Party’s chances of forming a government. Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut expressed concerns about the potential return of a coalition government that has previously failed to govern effectively.
“There is a risk that there would be a return of the old coalition which has failed to run the country in the last two years, and a risk of the return of the coup maker as prime minister,”
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut stated.
This reference to Prayuth Chan-ocha, a general who seized power in 2014, underscores the ongoing tensions within Thailand’s political arena. Despite retiring from military service, Chan-ocha remains eligible for the premiership.
The ruling Pheu Thai Party faced significant challenges after the court ruling that led to Shinawatra’s dismissal. The party had portrayed mixed signals regarding its next steps, suggesting it could either confront the Bhumjaithai Party in a vote for a new prime minister or opt for a new election. This uncertainty highlights the fragile nature of the current coalition, which is now under pressure to maintain its majority.
Shinawatra’s removal is part of a larger pattern in Thai politics. She became the sixth leader from or associated with the influential Shinawatra family to be ousted by military or judicial actions in the past two decades. This ongoing struggle for power among Thailand’s elite has resulted in a tumultuous political environment.
With the support of the People’s Party, the Bhumjaithai Party is now positioning itself to take decisive action in the formation of the next government. Political analysts are closely watching how this alliance will shape the future of governance in Thailand, as the country seeks a resolution to its political crisis.
