Bangkok: Associate Professor Dr. Thanaporn Sriyakul, Director of the Institute of Political and Policy Analysis, expressed concerns over the recent appointment of Mr. Chulaphan Amornvivat as the leader of the Pheu Thai Party. In an interview on the “Share Lao Khao Det” program on MCOT NEWS FM 100.5, Dr. Thanaporn stated that the new leadership mirrors the previous tenure of Dr. Cholanat Srikaew and Secretary-General Mr. Prasert Chantarawongthong in 2023, suggesting that the change may not spur growth or attract younger members to the party. He emphasized the diminishing influence of Thaksin Shinawatra, the party’s influential figure, due to his imprisonment, and warned that a confrontational strategy might expose Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, to legal challenges.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Thanaporn advised that the Pheu Thai Party should adopt a more conciliatory approach towards conservatives. He described Chulaphan’s selection as a self-cleansing tactic seen as a mutual understanding by conservatives. The decision also indicated a lack of trust in other prominent figures like Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who reportedly has significant financial assets. Asset declarations to the National Anti-Corruption Commission revealed Suriya’s deposits amounting to 1.298 billion baht, contrasting with Prasert’s modest deposit of just over 100,000 baht.
Dr. Thanaporn highlighted that as the Pheu Thai Party gears up for future elections, its strategic positioning in government formation has evolved. The party leader aims to maintain a balance that shields his daughter from political pressures. Additionally, Dr. Thanaporn mentioned that the proposed 10,000 baht digital money policy could be contentious, potentially leading to legal repercussions for Ms. Paethongtarn. The conservatives’ focus on fiscal discipline poses a challenge, underscoring the party’s current frailty.
The strength of the Pheu Thai Party can be gauged by its performance in party-list votes, Dr. Thanaporn noted. He encouraged loyal supporters to continue their advocacy without fear of disappointment. However, Mr. Suriya appears reluctant to invest further, anticipating no significant returns and asserting that political engagement is not an act of charity.