10-8-2023 (BANGKOK) In a significant development for Thailand’s political landscape, the Pheu Thai Party has welcomed the Chatthaipattana Party, along with its 10 Members of Parliament (MPs), into its coalition. With this new addition, the coalition now holds 238 seats in the House of Representatives, out of the total 500 seats.
Both parties expressed their commitment to seeking cooperation from all political factions and the Senate in their joint statement on Thursday morning. Their primary objective is to elect a new prime minister and form a new government through collaborative efforts.
Speaking at the parliament, Pheu Thai leader Cholnan Srikaew emphasized the unique political situation in the country and stressed the necessity for all parties to unite in addressing constitutional challenges, economic issues, and social conflicts. He called for confidence in their alliance, which aims to restore stability and normalcy to Thai society expeditiously.
Chartthaipattana leader Varawut Silpa-archa expressed gratitude to Pheu Thai for extending the invitation to join the coalition. He affirmed Chatthaipattana’s acceptance of the offer and stressed the shared policies and perspectives between the two parties. Mr. Varawut expressed confidence in Pheu Thai’s ability to lead the forthcoming administration.
With the inclusion of Chartthaipattana, the Pheu Thai-led coalition now comprises nine parties. Previously, Pheu Thai withdrew from its previous eight-party coalition with the election-winning Move Forward Party (MFP), which secured 151 House seats, while Pheu Thai stood second with 141 seats.
Subsequently, Pheu Thai joined forces with the Bhumjaithai Party, which secured 71 House seats, to form a new alliance. On Wednesday, Pheu Thai announced the inclusion of six more political parties in their coalition.
During the press conference, Pheu Thai leader Cholnan highlighted that the previous coalition with Move Forward, comprising a total of 312 House seats, failed to form a government despite Pheu Thai’s best efforts. However, he expressed optimism that the Pheu Thai-led coalition would have a majority vote in the 500-seat House before the parliamentary vote for the prime minister.
Pheu Thai deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai clarified that the meeting between Pheu Thai representatives and the election-winning Move Forward Party on Wednesday was not an invitation for the latter to join the coalition government. The meeting, which also included Pheu Thai prime ministerial candidate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, aimed to foster dialogue and cooperation between the parties.
The addition of the Chatthaipattana Party to the coalition brings renewed hope for the formation of a stable government in Thailand. As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes remain on the forthcoming parliamentary proceedings and the eventual appointment of a new prime minister.
