Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai team up to form a government
Anutin Charnvirakul (SPhotograph / Shutterstock.com)
Today, the Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai parties announced they are working together as the basis for a new government coalition. Together they have 212 seats in the Chamber and they invite other parties to join them. Although they claim to already have a majority, they do not reveal which parties have already pledged their support.
During the press conference, Pheu Thai representatives such as their leader Cholnan Srikaew, deputy leader Phumtham Wechayachai and party secretary general Prasert Chanthararuangthong were joined by Bhumjaithai leaders including Anutin Charnvirakul and secretary general Saksayam Chidchob.
Cholnan indicated that they expect more parties to join. To form an effective government capable of tackling the country's problems, he stressed the importance of the support of both MPs and senators.
Comments about Move Forward having more seats than the combined parties were countered by Phumtham arguing that Bhumjaithai is the third largest party by seats, demonstrating significant support for them.
Cholnan indicated that previous attempts to form a government with Move Forward failed, mainly because of their policy proposal to change lèse-majeste laws. This policy was met with opposition from senators and other parties. With Bhumjaithai in their ranks, Cholnan expects these problems to diminish and government formation to become more feasible.
He added that the Palang Pracharath Party, led by Prawit Wongsuwan, and the United Thai Nation Party, where Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha plays a prominent role, will not participate in their coalition government.
The press conference concluded with a call to the media present to exercise caution when leaving the event. This may refer to an earlier disturbance at the Pheu Thai headquarters, where protesters threw flour and dyes.
Source: Thai Public Broadcasting Service
What has been reported many times in written and online media and which analysts and columnists are laughing at: PT seeking and receiving cooperation from BJT. Together 212 seats in parliament. Now add PPP and UTN and the total comes to 288 seats. More than enough to have a solid majority for legal decision-making. The UTN already hinted at this possibility on August 4. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/politics/2623097/utn-open-to-siding-with-pheu-thai
The same analysts and columnists express their amazement that if PT chooses this path, the party will dissolve itself. https://www.thaienquirer.com/50394/opinion-in-bed-with-the-enemy/
Normally these 2 parties will be punished in 4 years, especially PT will certainly suffer, unless they come up with a new trick during the coming government period, everything is possible in Thailand..
The plan now is that tomorrow, Thursday, the Pita group will be brought in to try to lay a foundation for forming a new government. If they come out after concessions have been made, they will not need the Senate! If this does not work, the group Payuth, Phawit comes into the picture. But that is something they actually prefer not to do. It's getting exciting!!!