Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

In an unexpected twist, the Pheu Thai Party has named Chaikasem Nitisiri as its candidate for prime minister, confronting Bhumjaithai Party’s leader Anutin Charnvirakul as they vie for parliamentary support. This drama unfolds just as the House of Representatives prepares to convene on Friday.

 

Wisut Chainarun, the chief whip of the caretaker government, confirmed Pheu Thai’s move, setting the stage for a showdown with Anutin, who is believed to have secured backing from a majority of MPs. This bold decision follows a setback for Pheu Thai as its plan to dissolve the House was reportedly returned by the Privy Council due to procedural and legal issues.

 

Pheu Thai has taken to social media, announcing that should Mr Chaikasem be selected, the party intends to dissolve the House immediately after their policy statement. This move reflects a strategic pivot since recent legal interpretations suggest only a lawfully appointed prime minister can initiate House dissolution.

 

Amidst this, the opposition People’s Party has urged clarification from Pheu Thai and acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai regarding any revised plans for dissolution. They insist that the prime ministerial vote should be delayed until the dissolution process is conclusively addressed.

 

“The Pheu Thai Party seems to be sending mixed signals,” noted Natthaphong Rueangpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party. His remarks on social media demand a definitive stance from Mr Phumtham on the dissolution issue.

 

Aligning against this backdrop, the People’s Party has thrown its weight behind Mr Anutin, who claims an impressive coalition of 146 MPs, including 69 from Bhumjaithai. The successful candidate will require at least 247 of the 492 MPs’ votes—a significant hurdle.

 

However, this backing is not without strings. The People’s Party has stipulated that Mr Anutin must also agree to dissolve the House within four months, adding another layer of complexity to the political chessboard.

 

A former attorney-general, Mr Chaikasem is not an MP and remains the sole option on Pheu Thai’s prime ministerial list. This limits his ability to directly present his vision to lawmakers, potentially weakening his position.

 

As events unfold, each MP will declare their preferred candidate by name in the House on Friday, marking a critical juncture for the nation. This necessity arose following the Constitutional Court’s recent dismissal of Paetongtarn Shinawatra from the prime ministerial post for ethical violations linked to her interaction with former Cambodian premier Hun Sen.

 

This political saga has captivated many, with significant implications for Thailand's political landscape. The developments not only hold the interest of the nation but also underscore the intricate power dynamics at play. Whether Mr Chaikasem can effectively counter Mr Anutin’s strong coalition remains to be seen, as Thailand waits with bated breath for the outcome of Friday’s crucial vote.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-09-04

 

 

I wouldn't have thought PT would want an election right now. The surge of nationalism after the Thai- Cambodian skirmishes will surely benefit Bhumjaithai and other conservative parties.

What happened to their plan to persuade Prayut to stand as PM? 

I guess he wouldn't play ball.

12 minutes ago, bannork said:

I wouldn't have thought PT would want an election right now. The surge of nationalism after the Thai- Cambodian skirmishes will surely benefit Bhumjaithai and other conservative parties.

What happened to their plan to persuade Prayut to stand as PM? 

I guess he wouldn't play ball.

I guess he wouldn't play ball.

 

Prayut can always still fall back if needed in high urgency on his ex  generals i guess ..... so extra option in his sleeve....🤭

 

There is only one person that can disolve parliament. This should be done.

7 hours ago, dinsdale said:

There is only one person that can disolve parliament. This should be done.

The question is, why hasn't it happened? 

Another fiasco unfolding.

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

“The Pheu Thai Party seems to be sending mixed signals,”

Yes, the signals seem to be coming from Singapore, Dubai, Bangkok, it is all very confusing... 

12 hours ago, bannork said:

I wouldn't have thought PT would want an election right now. The surge of nationalism after the Thai- Cambodian skirmishes will surely benefit Bhumjaithai and other conservative parties.

What happened to their plan to persuade Prayut to stand as PM? 

I guess he wouldn't play ball.

Prayut still hiding behind the barrack gates.🙃🙃