Bangkok: Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport from the Pheu Thai Party, addressed recent discussions surrounding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s involvement with the coalition parties. During a recent coalition dinner, Thaksin expressed his intent to collaborate with current coalition parties beyond the next election. Suriya emphasized that Thaksin’s comments were aligned with existing coalition desires and not out of the ordinary.

According to Thai News Agency, Suriya clarified that Thaksin’s remarks should not be interpreted as excluding the Bhumjaithai Party from future alliances. Post-election decisions typically depend on election outcomes. If the existing coalition secures a strong majority, there may be no need to engage former opposition parties. However, a lack of sufficient votes would necessitate further discussions among party leaders.

Suriya highlighted the slim majority currently held by the coalition, suggesting it would foster unity among the parties. Thaksin’s encouragement for parties to collaborate, particularly in vote management within the House of Representatives, is aimed at strengthening this unity. Suriya dismissed any notion that Thaksin’s involvement implied financial influence, attributing the call for unity to the narrow vote margin rather than monetary considerations.

Addressing concerns about Thaksin’s influence at the coalition event, Suriya asserted that Thaksin’s presence did not equate to governmental control. Decisions remain with the coalition parties, each governed by its own executive committee. Thaksin’s participation was framed as sharing his experience rather than exerting influence.

Thaksin, who has publicly supported his son’s prime ministerial role, was defended by Suriya against claims of domination. Suriya described the father-son dynamic as natural and devoid of control issues, highlighting the normalcy of sharing experiences within a familial context.