Bangkok: The Democrat Party has not yet resolved its stance on joining the government, as the executive committee has tasked the party leader with making the decision. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment and leader of the Democrat Party, explained that the joint statement with the Pheu Thai Party was a matter of courtesy, and emphasized that no decisions have been finalized. He noted that any hasty decisions could be a mistake, and that all decisions must be approved by the party to be considered legal.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chalermchai revealed after an extensive executive committee meeting that the political situation remains unclear, necessitating further discussions within the party to strategize according to party regulations. With the departure of Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the government has ceased to exist, prompting the Democrat Party to initiate a new process for timely administration. The meeting resolved to use specific articles exempting the party from certain regulations, with decisions on joining the government and selecting ministers empowered to the party leader.
Mr. Chalermchai addressed inquiries about whether the meeting aimed to prevent legal action similar to previous instances, clarifying that this was not the case. He confirmed that the Democrat Party's announcement of a coalition government with the Pheu Thai Party does not yet constitute joining the government, as formal processes within the party must be followed. He reiterated the importance of waiting for the political situation to unfold before making any decisions.
When questioned about potential alliances, Mr. Chalermchai maintained a cautious stance, emphasizing the need for decisions to go through proper party channels. He confirmed no discussions with the Bhumjaithai Party have occurred and highlighted the importance of adhering to party regulations in determining future political directions.
Amid speculation about the Democrat Party's position, Mr. Chalermchai assured that all decisions would be made in alignment with party principles. He emphasized that the party's future direction would focus on addressing political challenges and that any actions taken would remain under one administration.
Deputy Interior Minister Decha Isara Khaothong, representing the Democrat Party in negotiations with the Pheu Thai Party, acknowledged the need for party approval before proceeding with any agreements. Mr. Chalermchai stressed that all political parties, not just the Democrat Party, must adhere to similar processes.
As the upcoming parliamentary session approaches, which is expected to focus on selecting the prime minister, Mr. Chalermchai clarified that the regular agenda would not be linked to the prime ministerial vote. He reiterated that the Democrat Party's decisions would be made with careful consideration, awaiting a clearer political landscape before taking action.
Following the executive committee meeting, noticeable interactions among party members suggested ongoing discussions about potential alliances. However, Mr. Chalermchai assured that any decisions would be guided by the party's regulations and principles, reinforcing the Democrat Party's commitment to navigating the political landscape responsibly.