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Thai opposition backs Bhumjaithai Party to form next government, leader says

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, September 3rd 2025 at 1:54 GMT by ThePrint
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Thailand’s Opposition Coalition Throws Its Weight Behind Bhumjaithai to Build the Next Government

In a decisive shift that could alter Thailand’s political trajectory, the country’s main opposition bloc has publicly pledged its support for the Bhumjaithai Party (BJP) as the foundation of the next administration. The announcement, made by opposition leaders in a joint press conference in Bangkok, arrives amid a tense power‑sharing debate that follows the April 25 general election, in which no single party secured an outright majority.

A King‑Maker’s Moment

Bhumjaithai, the centrist party known for its “green” platform and a pro‑Thai nationalist stance, won 20 seats in the 500‑member House of Representatives. While not a dominant force on its own, the party’s seat count places it at the center of the country’s “king‑maker” position. The opposition coalition—comprising the Democrats, Thai Centre Party, Thai Liberal Party, and several regional parties—has decided that backing Bhumjaithai is the best way to build a viable and broad‑based government that can break the hold of the current ruling coalition, dominated by the Palang Pracharath Party (PPP).

“We have found a partner that can bring together diverse voices while ensuring stability and respect for democratic norms,” said the coalition’s spokesperson, Dr. Kittichai, at the press briefing. “Bhumjaithai’s commitment to clean governance and its pragmatic approach to policy make it an ideal leader for the next government.”

A Strategic Alliance

The opposition’s endorsement is more than a symbolic gesture. It is a calculated move designed to strengthen their bargaining power and to create a coalition that can command a simple majority in Parliament. The Democrats alone hold 47 seats, while the Thai Centre and Thai Liberal parties add another 20 combined. Together, the coalition’s 67 seats, combined with Bhumjaithai’s 20, give them a clear path to a 87‑seat majority—a number that exceeds the 251 needed to pass legislation.

The coalition’s press release also highlighted that they were in active discussions with the PPP. “We are open to negotiating with all parties that respect the democratic process,” the spokesperson added. “However, the PPP’s current record on civil liberties and corruption has left us wary.”

Political Implications

If the coalition’s support for Bhumjaithai materializes, it could signal a shift away from the PPP’s dominance and create a new power structure that places greater emphasis on transparency and reform. The PPP, which has governed since 2019 under Prime Minister Prayut Chan‑ocha, has been criticized for its use of the military’s influence and for perceived lack of accountability. A Bhumjaithai‑led coalition could potentially bring fresh policy initiatives, especially in areas such as environmental protection, rural development, and public sector reform.

The opposition’s endorsement also serves to galvanize public sentiment in favor of a government that is perceived as more responsive to the electorate. “We are presenting an alternative that promises real change,” said Dr. Kittichai. “The people have spoken in the polls, and we are here to heed that call.”

Reaction from Bhumjaithai

Bhumjaithai’s leader, Puey Sangpradit, welcomed the coalition’s support in a televised interview. “This is a historic moment for Thai politics,” he said. “Our party has always advocated for a balanced and inclusive governance model. We are ready to bring together all willing partners and build a government that serves the people.”

Sangpradit emphasized the party’s willingness to collaborate with both the opposition and the incumbent coalition, highlighting that the government’s success depends on compromise and consensus. “We do not want to be a polarizing force,” he said. “Instead, we aim to be a bridge that unites diverse political views for the common good.”

International Observations

The decision has attracted international attention. Analysts from the Asia‑Pacific Institute for Policy Studies (APIPS) noted that the coalition’s move could stabilize Thailand’s political environment, which has been volatile since the 2006 military coup. “A government that is built on broad consensus and elected mandates is likely to be more resilient,” said APIPS researcher, Dr. Arun Charoen. “The inclusion of Bhumjaithai, with its clean‑image and environmental focus, adds a credible voice to the new administration.”

The United Nations’ South‑East Asia Regional Office also released a brief statement acknowledging the opposition’s support for a democratically accountable government. “We encourage all parties in Thailand to maintain a constructive dialogue and to honor the will of the electorate,” the statement read.

Next Steps

With the endorsement set, the opposition coalition has called for an expedited coalition negotiation process. They expect the parliament’s first session to convene within the next two weeks, where they will formally propose Bhumjaithai’s candidate for Prime Minister. In a speech delivered in front of the House, Puey Sangpradit outlined the party’s agenda, which includes a crackdown on corruption, a national environmental protection plan, and reforms to the education system.

Meanwhile, the PPP is reportedly preparing its own strategy, with some of its senior members publicly expressing concern about losing influence. “We will respond to the new political reality with diplomacy and resolve,” said a senior PPP official in an interview with the Thai Daily.

The political landscape in Thailand is poised at a crossroads. The opposition coalition’s backing of Bhumjaithai marks a significant turn toward a coalition that could potentially usher in a new era of governance grounded in transparency, inclusivity, and policy innovation. Whether this new partnership will stand the test of parliamentary procedure and public scrutiny remains to be seen, but the momentum behind the move is unmistakable.

— Reported by [Your Name], Research Journalist