28-7-2023 (BANGKOK) Caretaker Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has raised concerns about the ongoing rallies organized by supporters of the Move Forward Party (MFP) to express their dissatisfaction with the Senate and the current political situation. According to Prime Minister’s Office Minister Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, Gen Prayut fears that these rallies could reignite conflicts between groups with differing political views, potentially destabilizing the country.
The Move Forward Party’s supporters have taken to the streets, voicing their discontent with the junta-appointed senators who did not back their party’s prime ministerial candidate, Pita Limjaroenrat. The Election-winning MFP has been vocal about its stance on amending Section 112 of the Criminal Code, also known as the lese majeste law, which has added to the political tensions.
Minister Thanakorn, who is also the deputy leader of the United Thai Nation Party (UTN), expressed his hope that the Move Forward Party would urge its supporters to adhere to the law during their protests. He emphasized that the UTN would not support any prime ministerial candidate from a party that includes Move Forward as a coalition partner, largely due to their strong stance on the lese majeste law.
In response to queries about potential government formation, Minister Thanakorn stated that he was not aware of any approach from the Pheu Thai Party. He indicated that such matters were being handled by the party’s leader and secretary-general.
Despite the current political landscape, Minister Thanakorn expressed confidence in the possibility of cooperation between his party and Pheu Thai. He stressed the importance of all sides uniting in the country’s best interests to move the nation forward steadily.
“As long as we prioritize the country’s interests, I don’t foresee any issues with the two parties working together,” said Minister Thanakorn. He remained optimistic that a new prime minister would soon be selected once the concerned parties made progress in their negotiations. The future of Thailand’s political landscape remains uncertain as negotiations and discussions continue.
