Party to Assess Possible Strategies on Coming Monday

In the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand finds itself at a crossroads as the political landscape shifts following the dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra from the prime minister's post by the Constitutional Court. The People's Party, with 143 seats, has emerged as the kingmaker in this power game, holding the key to potentially ending the political deadlock that has gripped the nation.

The Kla Tham party, a coalition of mostly defectors from the pro-junta Palang Pracharath Party, has emphasised the urgency of restoring executive leadership. They believe that the current state of international tensions, economic instability, and social challenges demands immediate attention.

The Kla Tham party has also called for policies that prioritise the welfare of Thailand's 30 million farmers. They advocate for protection against corporate interests that may threaten agricultural livelihoods. In line with this, they have outlined their core principles to Bhumjaithai, stressing the protection of Thailand's three foundational institutions: the Nation, Religion, and Monarchy.

Acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai believes the People's Party is likely to consider all coalition options before making a decision. Meanwhile, Bhumjaithai, with 69 seats, and Pheu Thai, with 140 seats, are seeking the opposition party's backing for their respective prime ministerial candidates, Chaikasem Nitisiri and Anutin Charnvirakul.

Anutin Charnvirakul, the leader of Bhumjaithai, claimed on Friday night that he had reached a deal with the People's Party. However, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, the party's leader, denied this.

The Kla Tham party has officially announced its support for Anutin Charnvirakul to become Thailand's 32nd prime minister. Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, leader of the Progressive Movement, met with Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of Pheu Thai, to discuss support for a Pheu Thai-led coalition. Thanathorn conveyed to Thaksin the conditions set by the People's Party: dissolve the House within four months and hold a referendum to amend the constitution.

Currently, there are 492 members in the House, so a candidate needs at least 247 votes to become prime minister. Thanathorn stressed that no party could currently form a majority government. The People's Party's objective is to use its 143 votes to break the political deadlock for the country without joining the government.

The Bhumjaithai Party officially declared its support for Anutin Charnvirakul as the candidate for the office of the 32nd Prime Minister of Thailand on Sunday, March 27. The political chessboard in Thailand continues to evolve, with the fate of the nation hanging in the balance. The coming weeks promise to be a period of intense negotiation and political maneuvering as the various parties jockey for position.