29-8-2024 (BANGKOK) In a surprising turn of events that has reshaped Thailand’s political landscape, the Pheu Thai Party has extended a formal invitation to its long-standing rival, the Democrat Party, to join the new coalition government. This unexpected alliance marks a significant shift in the country’s political dynamics, as the two parties set aside their historical animosities in pursuit of a unified government.
On Wednesday, Pheu Thai secretary-general Sorawong Thienthong personally delivered the invitation to Democrat secretary-general Det-it Khaothong at the parliament building, with MPs from both parties in attendance. The invitation highlighted Pheu Thai’s belief in the Democrats’ “capabilities, knowledge and ideologies” as valuable assets in the joint governance of the nation.
The proposed coalition has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum, given the parties’ tumultuous history. Their relationship reached a nadir in 2010 when the Democrat-led government, under then-Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, ordered a crackdown on red-shirt protesters allied with Pheu Thai, resulting in at least 85 fatalities.
Det-it Khaothong expressed gratitude for Pheu Thai’s trust and announced that the Democrat Party’s executive board and MPs would convene on Thursday to formally consider the proposal. When questioned about potential backlash from traditional Democrat supporters, particularly in the party’s southern stronghold, Det-it emphasised a message of reconciliation, stating, “The Democrat Party has no conflict with anyone. We only have love, understanding and forgiveness.”
However, the alliance has not been without its critics. Former Democrat leader Chuan Leekpai voiced his opposition to the partnership, though he pledged to respect the party’s final decision. Tida Tawornseth, a former red-shirt leader, accused Pheu Thai of prioritising power over principles.
The coalition-building process has also seen its share of controversy, with Pheu Thai’s decision to exclude the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) from the government. This move has been met with accusations of betrayal from PPRP members, who claim their party has been cooperative with Pheu Thai.
