Bangkok: Bhumtham Wechayachai, acting Deputy Prime Minister and acting Minister of the Interior, has taken the lead in uniting former coalition parties to continue working collectively towards addressing the nation's challenges. In a significant statement, Bhumtham confirmed the coalition's commitment to support the Pheu Thai Party in forming a new government. He assured that the Kla Tham Party would remain with the coalition until a clear direction is established, expressing confidence in the government's formation process. He emphasized patience in awaiting the nomination of Chaikasem as Prime Minister, and highlighted that any ministers appearing in the Bhumtham Party would need to await official results.
According to Thai News Agency, the coalition discussions took place at 5:00 PM at the Princess Larn Luang Hotel, with key political figures in attendance. Among those present were Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, acting Deputy Prime Minister and acting Minister of Transport, and leaders from the Pheu Thai Party, along with acting ministers from the same party. Members from former coalition parties, including Mr. Tewan Liptapallop of the Chart Pattana Party, Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa of the Chart Thai Pattana Party, Mr. Chalermchai Sri-on of the Democrat Party, and Mr. Pirapan Salirathavipak of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, gathered for the discussions, demonstrating a unified front.
During a press conference following the discussions, Mr. Phumtham emphasized the importance of continuity in governance amid political changes. He expressed support for the Prime Minister, asserting that maintaining continuity is crucial for addressing the nation's issues without creating a governance vacuum. The coalition parties reiterated their commitment to forming a government led by the Pheu Thai Party, prioritizing the democratic process to elect a new Prime Minister.
Mr. Phumtham assured that all parties, including Ruam Thai Sang Chart, Democrat, Pra Prachachat, Chartthaipattana, and Chart Pattana, are working in cooperation with the Pheu Thai Party. He emphasized the commitment to transparency and swift progress in the process of selecting a Prime Minister once Parliament resumes.
Addressing the role of the Kla Tham Party, Mr. Phumtham clarified that they remain part of the coalition until clarity is reached. He also dismissed concerns about ministers expressing opposition stances, emphasizing the trust and confidence among coalition parties. The possibility of Mr. Chaikasem Nitisiri being nominated as Prime Minister remains open, with efforts ongoing to gather necessary support.
Mr. Phumtham addressed the possibility of changes in the coalition's dynamics, expressing confidence in the Pheu Thai Party's capability to form a government. He mentioned that discussions about the acting Prime Minister would occur in an upcoming cabinet meeting.
Regarding the People's Party's conditions for supporting constitutional amendments, Mr. Phumtham expressed readiness to support initiatives beneficial to the nation and democracy. He also affirmed that government formation would adhere to democratic processes.
After the press conference, Mr. Bhumtham interacted warmly with Pheu Thai Party ministers, expressing optimism about the coalition's future despite potential ministerial changes.
Mr. Phumtham did not confirm whether the Kla Tham Party had been contacted regarding their absence from the press conference, nor did he comment on the potential impact of their withdrawal from the coalition. He declined to address questions about upcoming protests, leaving the venue promptly.
Mr. Pirapan Salirathavipak, leader of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, also refrained from commenting on MPs interacting with the Bhumjaithai Party, reaffirming his loyalty to his party. He asked the media to refer to the statements made during the press conference for clarity on the coalition's status.