Bangkok: Suriya, a Member of Parliament known as a "cobra" for defecting from his original party, has made headlines by joining the Bhumjaithai Party. This move comes after Suriya voted against the stance of the People's Party, his former affiliation, in a significant political decision.

According to Thai News Agency, Suriya Wongaree, representing Constituency 7 in Udon Thani Province, made a surprise appearance at the 27th House of Representatives meeting alongside members of the Bhumjaithai Party. This meeting, chaired by Speaker Sophon Saram, focused on urgent issues such as the rising energy prices due to Middle East conflicts. Suriya's alignment with Bhumjaithai followed his controversial vote in support of Anutin Charnvirakul as Prime Minister, opposing his party's choice, Nattapong Ruangpanyawut.

The People's Party responded to Suriya's actions by employing a "shelving" measure, aiming to curb his political influence within the party. This strategy, preferred over outright expulsion, seeks to retain the party's representation and maintain their quota for committee chairmanships. The National Human Rights Commission has also applied a shelving measure against defectors, highlighting the broader implications of Suriya's political shift.