7-8-2023 (BANGKOK) Two former leaders of the Democrat Party in Thailand voiced their opposition to the party’s intention to join the Pheu Thai-led coalition. The party’s attempts to elect a new executive board and leader were once again hindered due to a lack of quorum.
Chuan Leekpai, the former House speaker in the previous administration, emphasized that the party must issue a resolution if it wishes to join a coalition. He stated that individual members’ decisions do not represent the party’s official stance. Leekpai added that the timing was not appropriate for discussing coalition options, but the issue persisted due to several Democrat members holding meetings with key figures from the Pheu Thai party to negotiate cabinet positions.
Leekpai stated, “When individual members act independently, it is their private matter. If it concerns the party, a resolution must be adopted by the board, and no one should act in opposition to it.”
Another former Democrat leader, Banyat Bantadtan, suggested that the party should prioritize rebuilding itself rather than joining the government. He stated, “Once we have a new leader and a new executive board, I’ll ask them to consider this idea.”
Bantadtan also highlighted the importance of the party’s stance on the “Thaksin regime,” urging Democrat members to consider it when deciding whether to join the Pheu Thai-led coalition.
Acting Democrat leader, Jurin Laksanawisit, insisted that the party’s new executive board would ultimately decide on the matter. He emphasized the need for careful deliberation before making a decision.
The timeframe for electing a new leader for the Democrat Party remains uncertain, as the party’s second attempt to find Jurin’s successor also failed due to low turnout. The special assembly, which began at 9:30 am, fell short of the required quorum. Only 210 members had signed in, 40 members short of the quorum. After waiting for an hour, only 13 additional members arrived, leading to the cancellation of the meeting.
Chalermchai Sri-on, the acting party secretary-general, condemned party members who chose not to attend the meeting, stating that they had shown disrespect for the rules and undermined party unity.
