Political analysts suggest that Pheu Thai’s decision to exclude the faction led by Gen Prawit Wongsuwon from the coalition while retaining Capt Thamanat Prompow’s group may lead to significant consequences.
The rift between Capt Thamanat and Gen Prawit is perceived as irreparable and could have repercussions for Pheu Thai as well.
Reports indicate that the splintered Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) has launched an investigation into Capt Thamanat’s alleged connections with an external figure, widely believed to be Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai.
Allegations have emerged that Capt Thamanat permitted outside influence interfering with PPRP internal affairs, exacerbating divisions within the party.
Capt Thamanat and at least 20 MPs have broken away from the PPRP, aligning with Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government, pushing Gen Prawit into opposition.
Thaksin’s involvement is suspected to be a key factor behind the decision to exclude Gen Prawit’s faction.
Thaksin, also the father of Paetongtarn, is reportedly wary of Gen Prawit’s maneuvers, including an alleged push from former senators to petition the Constitutional Court to remove Srettha Thavisin following a controversial appointment.
Pheu Thai members expressed frustration with Gen Prawit for his absence during crucial votes for both prime minister appointments.
The inquiry into Capt Thamanat and alleged external influences on PPRP may indicate heightened political tensions, according to insights from political analysts.
Despite an irreversible split, the PPRP seems hesitant to expel Capt Thamanat and his group, as such a move would enable them to join another party while retaining their MP status.
This suggests a strategic choice by the PPRP, allowing Capt Thamanat to remain while also enabling action against him and any external influence from Thaksin.
Thaksin’s involvement is increasingly viewed as a threat to the government led by his own daughter, particularly as complaints filed to the Election Commission could undermine her political standing.
The regulations governing political parties explicitly prohibit non-members from exerting control over party activities, and reports suggest key coalition figures met at Thaksin’s residence, raising further concerns.
Amid these dynamics, a dramatic cabinet reshuffle occurred as Pheu Thai shifted its prime ministerial candidate from Chaikasem Nitisiri to Paetongtarn, executed just days after the Constitutional Court’s decision.
Looking ahead, the Pheu Thai government may face challenges from ongoing petitions and divisions among coalition partners, leading to an uncertain political climate.
Political Unity Under Pressure
As ambition for coveted cabinet positions intensifies, internal divisions have surfaced within coalition parties.
PPRP, United Thai Nation, and the Democrats have all undergone unsettling splits largely centered around cabinet postings in the new administration.
The PPRP is grappling with internal conflict, especially after the Constitutional Court’s recent decision that reshaped leadership roles, culminating in Ms. Paetongtarn taking the helm.
The recent power shift has uncovered longstanding tensions, particularly between Gen Prawit and Capt Thamanat, as their respective factions vie for influence within the government.
Recent reports indicate that Gen Prawit has expressed ambitions for the prime minister role, subsequently causing discontent among Pheu Thai members and particularly Capt Thamanat.
Capt Thamanat’s faction has now formed an alliance with Paetongtarn, marking a definitive split from Gen Prawit’s group, further complicating the coalition landscape.
Meanwhile, the Democrats are facing backlash from within their ranks for joining the coalition, creating a crisis of legitimacy as they reconcile their historical rivalry with Pheu Thai.
As the internal disputes unfold, some key players are reconsidering their stance on the coalition, particularly in light of past conflicts with Thaksin’s administration.
Overall, the current political landscape signals potential instability, with multiple factions maneuvering for power and influence within the government, raising questions about the long-term viability of the coalition.
