Bangkok: Chanin Rungthanakiat, former party-list MP and deputy spokesperson for the Pheu Thai Party, has voiced concerns over a possible ‘country exchange’ deal following the Bhumjaithai Party’s announcement of expanding its network of MPs. He urged the People’s Party not to remain silent in response to this development, which he claims violates the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the parties.

According to Thai News Agency, Chanin emphasized the importance of the People’s Party taking a stand against the merger with the Bhumjaithai Party. The integration of MPs from the Democrat Party and the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party into the Bhumjaithai Party, he argues, is a clear indication of an intent to breach Section 4 of the MOA, which prohibits the Bhumjaithai Party from forming a majority government. Chanin warns that ignoring this issue could lead to the Bhumjaithai Party gaining a decisive majority without facing timely criticism.

Chanin also highlighted the historical context of the People’s Party’s challenges, noting the collaboration between the Bhumjaithai Party and the Senate as a significant obstacle. Unlike previous instances, the current situation does not involve the Bhumjaithai Party leader directing Senate actions. Instead, senators have been allowed to propose rejecting the amendment to Section 256 of the Constitution, raising doubts about the sincerity of the People’s Party and Bhumjaithai Party in their constitutional drafting efforts. He questioned whether this might be a strategic ploy to shift blame to the Senate while avoiding responsibility for their agreements.

Moreover, Chanin criticized the People’s Party for using the rhetoric of ‘dealing for the country’ against other political parties while allegedly acting as a support structure for the Bhumjaithai Party, which remains a source of public skepticism. He pointed out that the People’s Party’s decision to remain in opposition and abstain from government participation, without addressing past criticisms, has only fueled public suspicion about potential undisclosed deals.