Veteran politician Chalerm Ubumrung has announced plans to hold the Pheu Thai Party accountable after his ongoing conflict with the party’s leadership. Frustrated by the party’s refusal to expel him, Chalerm is openly criticizing both the party and Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential patriarch behind Pheu Thai.
The discord escalated when Chalerm and his son, former MP Wan Ubumrung, participated in an event organized by a rival candidate during a local election in Pathum Thani on June 30. This led to accusations against Wan for being too friendly with opposing forces, despite his claims of merely visiting a family friend. Subsequently, Wan has transitioned to the coalition Palang Pracharath Party led by Gen Prawit Wongsuwon.
Chalerm is urging Pheu Thai to expel him so he can maintain his position as an MP while shifting alliances. However, Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra has made it clear that the party has no plans to remove him. She defended her decision to exclude Chalerm from the party’s communication platform, emphasizing the need to maintain focus on work-related matters and avoid drama.
In a dramatic escalation, Chalerm has threatened to disclose secrets related to Thaksin, claiming only he possesses such knowledge. If Pheu Thai continues to ignore his expulsion request, Chalerm indicated he would assume an independent role in Parliament, openly criticizing his party during legislative discussions.
Chalerm further revealed he had previously assisted Thaksin with various legal issues while the latter was in exile, following a Supreme Court conviction in 2008 for abuse of power related to the sale of state land. Despite their complicated history, Chalerm remarked, “Between me and Thaksin we owe each other absolutely nothing. But it would be fun if we could have a face-to-face debate.”
With a political career spanning over four decades and wealth from his previous role as a police captain, Chalerm has held numerous significant positions, including deputy prime minister under Yingluck Shinawatra. His family’s stronghold in Bang Bon has seen recent electoral challenges, with his son facing a significant defeat in last year’s elections. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has declined to comment on the escalating situation, suggesting it does not warrant media attention.
