9-8-2023 (BANGKOK) In a strategic move to consolidate power and forge a united front, the Pheu Thai Party has orchestrated a groundbreaking alliance with six additional political entities, collectively propelling the House seat count within the coalition to an impressive 238. The announcement came forthwith during a momentous parliamentary assembly on Wednesday, where prominent figures from Pheu Thai and its newfound allies fervently proclaimed their united mission.
The newly-inducted parties, namely Prachachart, Pheu Thai Ruam Palang, Charthaipattanakla, Seri Ruam Thai, Palang Sangkhom Mai, and The Thongtee Thai Party (also known as The Party of Thai Counties), with a distinct roster of constituents, now stand shoulder to shoulder with the Pheu Thai Party in their collective pursuit of governance.
Notably, The Thongtee Thai Party stands as a unique addition, boasting a single Member of Parliament (MP) and an origin rooted in former village chiefs, health volunteers, and dedicated civil servants. This fusion of political vigour and grassroots influence embodies the dynamic ethos of the coalition.
Cholnan Srikaew, the astute leader of Pheu Thai, declared a triumphant milestone for his party as they firmly secured a commanding presence of 238 House seats, fortifying their grand design to steer a Pheu Thai-facilitated coalition government.
A fervent aspiration for harmonious political proceedings echoed in the statements of both Pheu Thai and its allied partners. The collective intention to garner support from diverse quarters, including elected Members of Parliament and appointed senators, in favour of their nominee for prime minister, Dr Cholnan, was unequivocally emphasized.
The pivotal announcement event also bore witness to the presence of other pivotal figures who play key roles in the strategic manoeuvring of the coalition. Among them were Phumtham Wechayachai, the deputy leader of Pheu Thai; Prasert Chantararuangthong, the secretary-general of Pheu Thai; Sereepisuth Temeeyaves, the leader of Seri Ram Thai; Suwat Limtapanlop, the chairman of Charthaipattanakla; and Tawee Sodsong, the secretary-general of Prachachart, alongside dignified representatives from the collaborating parties.
Preceding this alliance, earlier this week, the Pheu Thai Party, in tandem with the Bhumjaithai Party, set the cornerstone for the coalition. Together, they command a formidable aggregate of 212 seats in the esteemed House of Representatives. The subsequent alliance with the six newly-inducted parties contributes an additional 16 seats, amplifying the collective voice and influence within the political arena.
As reminiscences of the May 14 general election linger, where Pheu Thai secured a notable second position with 141 House seats, trailing only behind Bhumjaithai with 71, this strategic consolidation signifies a resolute stride forward.
However, this harmony-seeking trajectory did not crystallize without its share of dramatic twists. A notable departure occurred on August 2 when Pheu Thai disengaged from its initial alignment with the victorious Move Forward Party (MFP), dissolving their agreement with the seven original allies who were actively rallying for a coalition government. This parting of ways was prompted by stark differences, primarily revolving around the proposed amendment of Section 112 of the Criminal Code, widely known as the lese majeste law. This contentious topic strained the cohesion, as a majority of MPs and a significant faction of military-appointed senators steadfastly opposed the revision.
In the aftermath of this divergence, Pheu Thai boldly stepped forward, avowing the formation of its distinct coalition and nominating Srettha Thavisin as its prime ministerial contender. This audacious move set a precedent, diverging from the trajectory of MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat, whose bid for prime ministerial position was met with parliamentary dissent on July 13.
