Confidence in forming the next government expressed by Phumtham from Pheu Thai party
In the aftermath of Thailand's recent elections, the political landscape is shrouded in uncertainty as parties negotiate potential coalitions and the country grapples with economic challenges.
The Pheu Thai Party, the largest party in the election, has nominated Chaikasem Nitisiri as its prime ministerial candidate. Nitisiri, a lawyer and former attorney general with a long legal career, was justice minister under Yingluck Shinawatra in 2013. However, it's important to note that the Pheu Thai Party has not yet confirmed Nitisiri as the coalition's official candidate.
Nitisiri is the last of three candidates proposed by Pheu Thai before the 2023 elections. The other two, Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Srettha Thavisin, have been removed by the court, leaving Nitisiri as the sole remaining potential candidate.
The remaining potential candidates for the coalition, besides Nitisiri, are Anutin Charnvirakul, Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, and Jurin Laksanawisit. Their parties are currently in discussions about forming a new government.
The Bhumjaithai Party has accepted a proposal for an interim government from the People's Party. The constitution does not specify a time-frame for the lower house to convene and choose a new PM, but it is expected to be within the next week.
The political uncertainty and economic outlook could remain gloomy due to the change in leadership and potential difficulties in delivering reforms and jumpstarting the economy. However, the Pheu Thai Party is confident it can form a new government and retain enough partners to hold power in parliament.
Leaders from United Thai Nation, Democrat, Chartthaipattana, Prachachat, and Chart Pattana parties were present in the discussion. Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, a potential candidate, is currently a privy councillor and is unlikely to return to politics.
As the negotiations continue, the future of Thailand's government hangs in the balance. The country awaits the formation of a new coalition and the selection of its next prime minister.
