14-8-2023 (BANGKOK) As Thailand stands on the brink of a pivotal decision regarding its next prime minister, senators remain divided over whether to endorse Srettha Thavisin, the prime ministerial candidate from the Pheu Thai Party. The political landscape has been marked by uncertainty and negotiations, as senators contemplate the qualifications of the candidate and seek clarity on key election promises.
Senator Seree Suwanpanont highlighted the pivotal role that the 250 senators hold in this decision-making process. He emphasized the necessity of scrutinizing the candidate’s qualifications and probing how the ambitious election pledges of the Pheu Thai Party, such as the 10,000-baht “digital money” giveaway, will be financially underpinned.
“Senators are keen to have Srettha provide explanations in parliament before the vote,” Senator Seree expressed.
The sentiments expressed by Senator Wanchai Sornsiri, who claimed that over 90% of senators would rally behind Mr. Srettha, were met with a cautious response from Senator Seree. He emphasized the fluidity of the situation and the potential for shifts in opinion before the actual vote.
Senator Seree stated, “Circumstances can evolve before the vote. If a prime ministerial candidate fails to meet the constitutional criteria, their nomination could be retracted. I am speaking in a general sense, not with specific reference to Mr. Srettha.”
When questioned about the potential date for the next prime ministerial vote, Senator Seree deferred to Parliament President Wan Muhamad Noor Matha to make that determination. The timing of the vote is closely tied to the Constitutional Court’s decision, scheduled for Wednesday, regarding the petition questioning the constitutionality of parliament’s rejection of the renomination of Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat as prime minister. Based on this decision, the vote could potentially occur on August 21 or 22.
Echoing this sentiment, Senator Kittisak Rattanawaraha echoed skepticism regarding the claim that 90% of senators would endorse Mr. Srettha. He pointed out that there is still time for shifts in perspectives and opinions leading up to the vote.
Addressing the apparent alignment between a group of 40 MPs from the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) and Pheu Thai’s candidate, Senator Kittisak suggested that formal agreements have not been announced yet. He hinted at a possible negotiation strategy, stating, “This could be seen as a signal of bargaining for what they want. If their demands aren’t met, Pheu Thai might not receive sufficient support.”
He underscored the complex dynamics by noting that this strategic move might be a way to compel Pheu Thai to rely more heavily on key figures such as Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, the leader of PPRP. Senator Kittisak also highlighted the significant influence of Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul. These two figures, if they were to withdraw support, could potentially lead to the collapse of the Pheu Thai-led coalition.
A source indicated that Pheu Thai has reportedly struck a deal with the PPRP. Allegedly, the PPRP has agreed to endorse Mr. Srettha’s candidacy in exchange for cabinet positions. However, the United Thai Nation Party (UTN) is yet to confirm its alignment with the Pheu Thai coalition.
The ongoing negotiations hold immense implications for Thailand’s political landscape. Should the UTN decide to join the Pheu Thai coalition, the combined strength would amount to 315 MPs, bolstering Pheu Thai’s influence.
With Pheu Thai’s 141 MPs and Bhumjaithai’s 71 MPs, combined with support from PPRP’s 40, and the potential inclusion of UTN’s 36, Chartthaipattana’s 10, Prachachat’s nine, Pheu Thai Ruam Palang’s two, and Chartpattanakla’s two, along with one MP each from Seri Ruam Thai Party, Plung Sungkom Mai, Thongthee Thai, and the New Democracy Party, the dynamics are poised for significant shifts.
Senator Wanchai Sornsiri took to Facebook on Sunday to convey his prediction that “Ninety percent of senators will throw their full support behind Mr. Srettha in the next prime ministerial vote.” He indicated that this backing is not contingent upon the PPRP’s decision to join the Pheu Thai-led coalition.
Highlighting the rationale behind such support, Senator Wanchai attributed it to Pheu Thai’s break from the Move Forward Party (MFP), which had proposed amending Section 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lese majeste law. This shift resonated with senators who opposed such changes.
He wrote, “When Pheu Thai demonstrates its ability to garner sufficient support, senators are prepared to vote for its prime ministerial candidate, regardless of the PPRP and the UTN’s involvement in the Pheu Thai-led coalition.” This sentiment reflects the nuanced negotiations and calculations that underlie Thailand’s ongoing political developments.
