Prime Minister Addresses Foreign Diplomats Ahead of High-Stakes Court Ruling on Political Party
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin assured that the government will respect the judicial process as the Constitutional Court prepares to rule on the potential dissolution of the opposition Move Forward Party. He emphasized the executive branch’s commitment to non-interference, stating, “We will not allow foreign entities to influence our justice system. Thailand’s judiciary is independent and adheres to international standards.”
He added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would hold a press conference on Wednesday to clarify the government’s position following the court’s decision.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come amid controversy following a meeting between Pita Limjaroenrat, an advisor to Move Forward, and diplomats from 18 nations. This meeting occurred shortly before Mr. Pita’s appearance in a prominent publication discussing the party’s situation.
In response to the meeting, Democrat Party member Rachada Dhnadirek cautioned diplomats that their remarks might be perceived as judicial interference. However, Move Forward spokesperson Parit Wacharasindhu clarified that the meeting was initiated by the diplomats themselves, who did not issue any statements indicative of foreign interference in Thailand’s internal politics.
Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai downplayed the meeting, stating that such interactions are standard practice for diplomats engaging with diverse political perspectives.
Concerned about international perceptions as Thailand seeks a seat on the UN Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term, the government is particularly sensitive to how political matters are viewed abroad. A decision on the seat is expected later this year.
In April, two UN special rapporteurs expressed unease regarding the Move Forward case, prompting Thai ambassador Usana Berananda to address their concerns in an August letter, highlighting the independence of the judiciary and the country’s commitment to human rights.
Vice-Minister Ras Chalee Chan confirmed on Tuesday that the government would not interfere with the court’s proceedings.
Analysis Predicts Dissolution
Political analysts predominantly forecast that the Move Forward Party, which emerged as the dominant force in last year’s elections, will face dissolution. Party leaders have already indicated plans to regroup under a different banner should the court rule in favor of dissolution, maintaining that no MPs are expected to join government coalition parties this time around.
In a prior ruling, the Constitutional Court had stated that Move Forward’s attempts to amend the lese majeste law indicated intentions that could undermine the constitutional monarchy. This ruling provided the legal framework for the Election Commission’s petition for the party’s dissolution, citing potential threats to the monarchy as justification.
The Election Commission has requested that the court revoke the rights of party executives to participate in elections and impose a ten-year ban on any individuals losing their rights from taking on leadership roles in new parties.
The Move Forward Party has called on the public to gather at its headquarters in Hua Mak district on Wednesday to witness the ruling live, starting at 1 PM with speakers followed by the court’s decision at 3 PM.
