24-7-2023 (BANGKOK) The eight-party alliance in Thailand is facing a critical juncture as it convenes to decide whether the Move Forward Party (MFP) will remain part of the coalition government. This decision follows other parties’ refusal to support the alliance in a prime ministerial vote if the MFP retains its plan to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code, also known as the lese majeste law.
Over the past few days, the Pheu Thai Party (PT), which leads the efforts to form a new government after the MFP’s failed attempt to secure its own leader for the prime ministerial post, has sought support from other parties for the upcoming vote on Thursday.
However, many parties have expressed concerns about working with Pheu Thai if the MFP continues with its plan to amend the lese majeste law. This stance has caused anxiety within the coalition, leading to discussions about the future composition of the government.
During a meeting with the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) on Sunday, the Pheu Thai leader, Cholnan Srikaew, revealed that the coalition would review the situation before making any further decisions. Pheu Thai aims to hold talks with all parties except the Democrat Party, which is currently without a party leader.
The alliance faces the challenge of securing at least 375 votes in support of their prime ministerial candidate, and any decision must be reached collectively before Pheu Thai nominates its candidate.
The MFP’s intention to amend the lese majeste law has been a contentious issue for the PPRP, which strongly opposes any changes to the law. As a result, PPRP remains hesitant about joining the new coalition if the MFP is involved.
Additionally, Capt Thamanat Prompow, a PPRP MP for Phayao, has ruled out nominating Gen Prawit Wongsuwon for a prime ministerial vote, citing the party’s failure to reach its target of winning at least 250 House seats in the previous general election.
As the coalition negotiations continue, some have suggested postponing the next prime ministerial vote to early August if sufficient support for the candidate is not secured.
The process of coalition formation is being likened to a wedding, with Pheu Thai as the groom and MFP as the potential bride. However, the alliance faces challenges in clarifying which parties will be included in the coalition, and parties are demanding clear positions on the lese majeste law.
Protests have also arisen, with demonstrators demanding that Pheu Thai fulfill its promises and not work with military parties. The situation remains tense, with uncertainty surrounding the future of the coalition government in Thailand.
