27-6-2023 (BANGKOK) The eight prospective coalition parties are set to convene on Thursday to discuss a contingency plan in case the formation of a government faces obstacles, as stated by Pheu Thai secretary-general Prasert Chantararuangthong.
Mr. Prasert confirmed that if the Move Forward Party (MFP) fails to form the government, the matter will be raised at a meeting on June 29, where all eight parties of the coalition will be present. He emphasized the need for careful consideration, particularly regarding the number of Members of Parliament (MPs) supporting each prime ministerial candidate.
Regarding rumors of financial incentives being offered to renegade MPs in exchange for their support during the speaker and prime ministerial votes, Mr. Prasert dismissed the possibility, stating that democracy has progressed significantly, making it difficult for renegade MPs to reenter parliament. He also mentioned that Pheu Thai does not grant its MPs a free vote on important matters such as the selection of the House speaker.
Speculation has been rampant lately about rival parties attempting to form a government and challenge the MFP-led eight-party coalition by enticing renegade MPs with financial rewards.
In response to rumors of around 60 renegade MPs being offered 100 million baht each for their support, Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul expressed skepticism, stating that it is unlikely people would engage in such practices.
When asked if Bhumjaithai would join a coalition government led by Pheu Thai in the event of the MFP’s failure to form a government, Mr. Anutin remarked that there have been no indications thus far that the MFP would fail. He also mentioned that Bhumjaithai has never contemplated joining a minority government.
Political expert Phichai Ratnatilaka Na Bhuket from the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) expressed optimism about Mr. Pita’s chances of becoming the next prime minister. He explained that if Mr. Pita fails to secure the support of at least 376 out of 750 lawmakers, the eight-party coalition will have to seek support from other parties. If additional support is still insufficient, Pheu Thai will have the legitimacy to form a government.
However, Mr. Phichai pointed out that the Democrat Party could play a decisive role in determining Mr. Pita’s fate. He noted that the Democrats will hold a general assembly on July 9 to select a new leader, and if Abhisit Vejjajiva is re-elected, he is likely to support Mr. Pita’s candidacy for prime minister.
Political science lecturer Olarn Thinbangtieo from Burapha University echoed this sentiment, stating that a minority government is unlikely, especially considering the reported sums being offered to renegade MPs. He emphasized that a minority government would lack political legitimacy and would not be able to effectively govern the country. Mr. Olarn also questioned whether Pheu Thai would remain loyal to the eight-party coalition or switch sides.
Former senator Paisal Puechmongkol took to Facebook on Monday to claim that the plot to bribe renegade MPs had been aborted due to Mr. Anutin’s refusal to join a minority government and the Democrats’ apparent support for Mr. Abhisit’s return as party leader. Mr. Paisal suggested that Mr. Abhisit would uphold democratic principles by supporting a candidate from the party that won the most seats in the election.
The state opening of parliament, presided over by His Majesty the King, is scheduled for July 3, followed by the selection of the House speaker on the next day, according to Senate Speaker Pornpetch Wichitcholchai. A joint sitting of the House of Representatives and the Senate is expected to convene on July 13 to select the new prime minister.
