Bangkok: "Thepthai" has accused the "Blue Regime" of impersonating the NCPO to gain control over Parliament and independent organizations. Political observer Thepthai Senpong expressed this sentiment on his Facebook page, "Thepthai - Political Talk," asserting that the "blue regime" has assumed control of Thai politics.
According to Thai News Agency, a recent political issue has ignited criticism and debate between a group of senators and Mr. Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People's Party and the opposition in the House of Representatives. The controversy revolves around the term "blue regime," which refers to a political system derived from the NCPO regime, leading to a "blue regime" monopolizing Thailand. This includes mentions of "blue senators," prompting 86 senators to issue a press release demanding an apology from Mr. Nattapong.
The concept of "blue regime" or "blue senators" has existed for some time, with its origins traced back to the election of 200 senators from 20 professional groups, each contributing 10 senators. Investigations by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and related agencies have shown that these senators were selected through block voting or collusion, fueling political speculation about the "blue regime" monopolizing Thai politics. Political groups, parties, and academics have discussed the potential of the "blue regime" replacing the "Thaksin regime," with some asserting it holds more control over Thai politics.
Despite the threat of legal action from senators labeled as "blue senators," it is surprising that they react so strongly, given that the term is general and not directed at individuals. The reality in Thai society is that "blue senators" exist, stemming from the 2017 Constitution, crafted to sustain the NCPO's political influence. This Constitution allowed 250 senators to vote for the Prime Minister and members of independent organizations, a condition used in the 2019 election to elect General Prayut Chan-o-cha as Prime Minister. However, the 2023 election saw the conservative faction defeated, with the liberal faction gaining a majority, unable to support General Prayut for another term.
Following this, the Pheu Thai Party formed a coalition government with conservative parties. As the NCPO-appointed Senate's term ended, blue faction leaders devised a strategy to replace the NCPO, using the 200 Senators as a power base. This led to block voting and collusion, creating around 150 "blue" Senators who wield power by appointing members of independent organizations. The political landscape now features a Senate dominated by blue-shirt Senators, a lower house led by blue-shirt MPs, and independent organizations gradually becoming blue-shirt entities. Even constitutional amendments resulting from the 21.6 million referendum votes may lead to a "blue" constitution, as proposed by the Bhumjaithai Party.
Thus, the claim that the "blue regime" is taking over Thailand's politics is accurate.