Firm Stance Against Move Forward Party
The Bhumjaithai Party, which placed third in the May 14 election with 71 House seats, has confirmed its refusal to join a coalition government involving the Move Forward Party (MFP). Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the party remains committed to its initial standpoint and will not participate in a coalition government that includes the MFP.
MFP’s Victory and Attempted Coalition
The MFP emerged victorious in the general election, securing 151 House seats. Following the election, the party attempted to form the next government alongside seven other political parties. The Pheu Thai Party, which garnered 141 House seats and finished second in the election, was another significant ally within the coalition group.
Despite the formation of an eight-party alliance holding 312 House votes, Charnvirakul asserted that Bhumjaithai would not become the ninth ally. The Bhumjaithai leader further revealed that he was unaware of any plans to form a coalition government comprising nine political parties to achieve a majority vote for prime minister from 500 MPs in the elected House and the Senate with 249 senators.
No Further Discussion on Coalition Government Formation
Since discussing the coalition government formation with Pheu Thai on July 22, Charnvirakul has not been contacted again to talk about the issue. He declined to comment on the possibility of excluding MFP from the next coalition government.
Rumors of Exclusion and Reaction from MFP and Pheu Thai
MFP list MP Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn addressed rumors that the MFP might be excluded from the coalition alliance and turned into an opposition party on his Facebook page. According to Lakkhanaadisorn, these rumors are attempts to divide the eight-party alliance. He asserted that a coalition government without the MFP would not be able to respond to the public’s questions.
Meanwhile, Prasert Chanthararuangthong, secretary-general of the Pheu Thai Party, announced that the eight hopeful coalition parties will convene officially before the parliament votes for prime minister again, which could potentially happen on August 4.
Previous Prime Ministerial Vote
On July 13, MFP leader and prime ministerial candidate Pita Limjaroenrat failed to secure a majority vote from the parliament to become prime minister. The parliament subsequently rejected his renomination on July 19.
Upcoming Meetings and Plans
The Pheu Thai Party plans to hold a meeting with coalition parties next week to discuss future steps. As political developments continue to unfold, the potential formation of Thailand’s next government remains uncertain.
