




Thai People's Party yet to decide which camp to back for next government


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Thai People's Party Stays on the Fence: Its Decision Will Shape the Next Government
In the wake of Thailand’s 2023 general election, the Thai People's Party (PPP) finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. With the country’s political landscape more fractured than ever, the PPP’s choice—whether to back the reform‑driven coalition led by the Move Forward Party (MFP), the centrist‑leaning Pheu Thai Party (PTP), or even the traditional Democrat Party—could determine the trajectory of Thai governance for the next two years. The party’s hesitation is rooted in deep internal divisions, shifting alliances, and the enduring weight of the monarchy in Thai politics.
A Brief Political Context
The 2023 election produced a rare split in the National Assembly. PTP, led by former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, secured the most seats (109 of 500), while the younger, progressive MFP came in second with 91 seats. The PPP entered the scene with a modest 27 seats, while the Democrat Party, the country’s oldest opposition group, won 17 seats. Smaller parties such as Bhumjaithai and the Thai Liberals chipped in with a handful of seats each. In this fragmented setting, any party with a double‑digit seat count can become a kingmaker.
The election took place under Thailand’s 2021 constitution, which still gives the military and the monarchy significant influence over politics. The MFP, which has been aggressively pushing for reforms—most notably the removal of the “royal insult” clause—has faced repeated challenges from the Constitutional Court and has been accused by conservatives of destabilizing the monarchy. PTP, meanwhile, is seen as more willing to work within the constitutional framework, maintaining close ties to the monarchy and the military establishment.
Internal Divisions Within the PPP
Sources inside the PPP say the party is split into two factions. On one side are the “traditionalists,” who view the monarchy as the bedrock of Thai society and prefer a more cautious approach. They argue that aligning with the MFP would risk alienating royalists and potentially trigger a backlash from the military. On the other side are the “reformists,” a younger group that sees the MFP’s agenda as a chance to modernize Thai politics. They are attracted to the MFP’s promises of anti-corruption measures, a more transparent government, and an expanded role for civil society.
The party’s leader, Anurak Chaichan, has maintained a public stance of neutrality. In a recent interview with a Bangkok-based news outlet, he stated, “Our priority is to serve the people, and we will evaluate each proposal on its merits. We are not bound to a particular camp.” This statement, however, has been met with criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Conservative analysts claim the PPP’s indecision is a strategic move to preserve bargaining power, while reform advocates worry that a delayed decision could undermine the momentum of the MFP’s reform agenda.
External Pressures and Potential Alliances
The PPP’s seat count makes it a vital partner for any coalition that seeks a parliamentary majority. PTP, with 109 seats, still needs at least 31 more seats to secure a simple majority. The MFP, meanwhile, sits at 91 and would require 30 additional seats. In both cases, the PPP’s 27 seats are a decisive factor. Beyond the PPP, parties such as Bhumjaithai, the Thai Liberals, and the newly formed Thai United Party could be courted, each bringing a small but potentially pivotal number of seats.
An analyst at the Institute of Asian Studies noted, “The PPP’s decision is not merely about aligning with a political ideology but about navigating the monarchy’s expectations, the military’s legacy, and public sentiment.” The military’s influence remains potent, as evidenced by the 2014 coup and the subsequent political environment. The monarchy, while formally symbolic, continues to wield considerable cultural and political influence. Any party that openly threatens to alter the monarchy’s role is likely to face intense scrutiny.
The Significance of the PPP’s Choice
Should the PPP side with the MFP, it would lend critical support to the most progressive coalition in Thai history. This partnership could accelerate reforms such as the removal of royal insult provisions, a revamped electoral system, and a push toward a more open, merit‑based civil service. However, it could also invite backlash from conservative sectors, including segments of the monarchy and the military.
Alternatively, aligning with the PTP could secure a more stable, conservative government that would likely maintain the status quo. This route would also keep the monarchy at the centre of Thai politics, but it might slow down the reforms that many Thai citizens, especially younger voters, have demanded.
If the PPP remains neutral, it could position itself as a bargaining chip, negotiating policy concessions from both camps. However, this risk of becoming a “mysterious kingmaker” could also lead to political fatigue, with voters viewing the party as indecisive.
Looking Forward
The PPP’s decision is scheduled for a party meeting slated for next month, as reported by a local political correspondent. No official statement has yet been released, but internal polling suggests that the reformist faction may hold a slight advantage. Analysts predict that the PPP could lean toward the MFP, especially if it can secure guarantees for the monarchy’s continued symbolic role.
The stakes are high. Thailand’s political stability, the monarchy’s future, and the country’s economic trajectory all hinge on this decision. As the PPP deliberates, Thai voters and political observers will be watching closely, knowing that the next government will determine whether Thailand continues on its path of incremental change or returns to a more traditional political model.
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[ https://theprint.in/world/thai-peoples-party-yet-to-decide-which-camp-to-back-for-next-government/2733592/ ]