In a period marked by uncertainty, the People’s Party (PP) is navigating challenges just two days after welcoming MPs from the dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP).
Analysts are contemplating how many more political shifts could occur before the next general election in three years.
With over 140 MPs transitioning to the PP, they assert their commitment to continue despite the MFP’s disbandment, showcasing a resilient spirit. The MFP, which followed the Future Forward Party (FFP), faced dissolution by the Constitutional Court in February 2020 due to an illegal loan scandal.
The recent disbandment of the MFP was primarily due to its push to amend the lese majeste law, raising concerns over threats to the constitutional monarchy. The court’s ruling led to the disqualification of eleven party executives from political participation for a decade.
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut has taken the helm of the PP, with Sarayoot Jailak appointed as secretary-general. The new executive board is notably smaller than its MFP predecessor and includes Sirikanya Tansakul as deputy leader.
The reduced executive board reflects two significant challenges. Firstly, many MPs, including Natthaphong and Sirikanya, are awaiting indictment in the Supreme Court for potential ethical violations tied to the amendment campaign. Such allegations could result in life bans from politics.
Secondly, the political landscape presents limited options for filling executive roles, as influential figures from the MFP are currently facing 10-year political bans.
The frequency of party dissolutions poses a substantial risk to the continuity of leadership and development of emerging political talent. A political source emphasized that frequent disbandments could erode party strength and voter appeal.
The FFP’s disbandment significantly impacted a new cadre of politicians, paving the way for their successors in the MFP. However, the MFP’s fate turned following a court ruling on January 31, which associated their amendment efforts with attempts to undermine the monarchy.
The court’s decision culminated in a recommendation for the MFP’s dissolution, finalized on August 7.
From the remnants of the MFP has emerged the PP, now led by a streamlined executive team.
Natthaphong and Sarayoot represent a new generation of politicians tightly aligned with their predecessors, yet face challenges in identifying capable candidates for future leadership.
The symbolic color orange, representing the FFP, MFP, and now the PP, underscores this continuing legacy.
Turbulence within the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP)
Thamanat: May stick with PPRP
As the Pheu Thai Party prepares for its government formation under Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) is encountering unexpected internal conflicts.
With 40 House seats, the PPRP has secured four cabinet positions but faces delays as the political landscape shifts following the recent dismissal of Prime Minister Srettha by the Constitutional Court.
Reports suggest that Thamanat Prompow might be dropped from the lineup. Given his past legal issues, his inclusion could pose risks to Paetongtarn’s administration.
Recent developments indicate a strong rift within the PPRP, led by Thamanat’s announcement of his intent to separate from party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon over disagreements on cabinet nominations.
Despite having the support of a significant faction within the party, Thamanat faces challenges in forming a new party or joining an existing one without official expulsion from the PPRP.
The tension appears to have led to conflicting cabinet nomination lists being presented to Pheu Thai from both Thamanat and Gen Prawit, with early indications suggesting that Thamanat’s suggestions may gain preference.
There are rumors of a broader reshuffling, with the Democrat Party potentially absorbing some of the cabinet seats previously allocated to Gen Prawit.
This ongoing drama has fueled speculation about the PPRP’s viability moving forward, as reports surfaced suggesting Gen Prawit might step down. However, he has since denied such claims.
