Following their successful performance in the general election, opposition parties have begun engaging in coalition talks to form a united front. Taking the lead in the coalition-building process is the Move Forward party (MFP), which emerged as the party with the highest number of seats in the lower house.
Secretary General of the MFP, Chaithawat Tulathon, disclosed that party leader Pita Limjaroenrat has entrusted him with the task of coordinating with other opposition parties, with a particular focus on the Pheu Thai party. Mr. Pita himself will be personally contacting the leaders of Pheu Thai, Prachachart, Thai Sang Thai, Thai Liberal, and Fair parties.
Mr. Chaithawat expressed the party’s intention to hold an official meeting and provide more comprehensive information to the media in the coming week, shedding further light on their coalition plans.
Despite securing a majority of seats in the lower house, the MFP-led coalition faces a significant hurdle in appointing their leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, as the Prime Minister. The selection process involves the participation of 250 members of the Senate, making the outcome uncertain.
Regarding the potential support from the Bhumjaithai Party for Mr. Pita, Mr. Chaithawat stated that the MFP is yet to decide whether to seek their endorsement. However, he mentioned that it would be a positive development if the Bhumjaithai and Democrat parties align with the voters’ wishes.
Mr. Chaithawat further added that the MFP has not yet reached out to the Chart Thai Pattana party, as their current focus remains on engaging with opposition parties. The party remains optimistic that its coalition-building strategy will yield enough votes to secure the appointment of the Prime Minister, aiming for a total of 376 votes.
In terms of their approach towards the Senate, Mr. Chaithawat expressed the party’s readiness to engage in talks, believing that the senators have the best interests of the country at heart and do not wish to see it descend into a deadlock. The MFP is open to constructive discussions to ensure a smooth and effective government formation process.
