Newly established People’s Party aims to continue reform mission, including key amendments to lese-majeste laws
PUBLISHED: 9 Aug 2024 at 21:24
UPDATED: 9 Aug 2024 at 22:30
In a significant political development, all 143 members of parliament previously affiliated with the dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP) have officially joined the newly formed People’s Party. The rebranding marks a new chapter for the main opposition party, determined to establish a single-party government in the upcoming election in three years.
Led by 37-year-old Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, a former IT executive now at the helm, the People’s Party is committed to representing the voice of the people. The party emphasized in a statement, “The most sacred and enduring institution in a democratic political system is the people, who hold the highest power in governing the country.” A new website is currently in development.
Mr. Natthaphong pledged to uphold the core policies that garnered 14.4 million votes for Move Forward in the last election, a substantial lead over the ruling Pheu Thai Party, which obtained 10.9 million votes.
During a press conference, he stated, “Our mission from now on is to create a government of change in 2027.” Notably, this mission includes a commitment to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code, the contentious lese-majeste law which the Constitutional Court cited as a central reason behind Move Forward’s dissolution and the political ban for its executives.
“We propose to amend Article 112 to ensure that this law is not misused as a political tool, but we remain mindful of its significance,” Mr. Natthaphong added.
The People’s Party also unveiled its new name and logo on social media, retaining the recognizable orange color scheme and an evolved version of its inverted pyramid logo, symbolizing the elevation of the people over authority.
Mr. Natthaphong, previously a list MP and former deputy secretary-general of Move Forward, was unexpectedly selected as the party’s leader during a recent assembly. This decision surprised many observers who anticipated Sirikanya Tansakun, the party’s former deputy leader, would take the reins.
However, Ms. Sirikanya clarified her support for Mr. Natthaphong, stating it was never her ambition to lead but rather to nominate him for the position. She will continue as the deputy leader.
The People’s Party has also established a five-member executive board led by Mr. Natthaphong, alongside secretary-general Sarayoot Jailak, treasurer Chutima Khotchaphan, registrar Natthawut Buaprachum, and Picharn Chaopattanawong.
Mr. Natthaphong, a Chulalongkorn University computer engineering graduate, transitioned into politics in 2019 amidst the rise of the Future Forward Party, prior to its dissolution in 2020 over election law violations.
In an impressive show of support, the party successfully raised 10 million baht in membership funds within the first nine hours of its launch.
To further engage with the public, the People’s Party has scheduled an introduction event at Stadium One in the Sam Yan area of Bangkok on Saturday, from 10 am to 8 pm.
