Bangkok: Wan Ubumroong submitted his resignation from the Palang Pracharath Party to the Election Commission following the withdrawal of key figures, Prawit Wongsuwan and Teerachai Poovanatnaruban, from the prime ministerial race. He stated that he could no longer continue and wished to spend time with his family. Concurrently, Chalerm Yubamrung announced his retirement from politics, leading to a wave of resignations from the party, with many members joining the Kla Tham Party.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Wan visited the Election Commission to formally submit his resignation. He mentioned that the decision was influenced by General Prawit Wongsuwan’s, the party leader, exit from the prime ministerial candidacy. Mr. Wan expressed his understanding of the situation’s gravity and stated that he could not proceed with the party’s political activities, especially with the upcoming registration for constituency MPs on December 27th. His departure also results in the loss of his executive committee position within the party. He expressed his gratitude towards General Prawit for his support over the past 1 year and 5 months and conveyed good wishes to his former colleagues who remain with the party.
In discussing the prospects of the Palang Pracharath Party in the upcoming election, Mr. Wan noted that over 100 members had requested nomination letters, but he was uncertain about the party’s future course. He encouraged those affected by the unexpected developments and shared his intention to take a break from politics, emphasizing that political engagement is a long-term commitment rather than a single election event. He hinted at a possible return to politics in the future.
Addressing rumors regarding his potential affiliation with the New Opportunity Party, Mr. Wan clarified that he maintains friendships across political parties and had only engaged in casual discussions with Mr. Jatuporn Buruspat, the party’s leader. He reiterated his intent to rest and dismissed any notion of political disagreements.
When questioned about Pol. Col. Chalerm’s political retirement, Mr. Wan remarked on Chalerm’s advanced age but emphasized that his own break from politics was temporary, given his comparatively younger age of 51. He anticipates remaining politically active until the age of 65 and is currently observing political developments without aligning with any new party until after the election.
Regarding Ms. Rakchanok Srinok, a former rival now running as a list candidate, Mr. Wan expressed confidence against any opponent but acknowledged the current challenges faced by his party.
The news agency also reported that during Mr. Wan’s resignation process, other Palang Pracharath Party members, including Mr. Sakorn Promphakdee and Mr. Weerasak Promphakdee, submitted their resignations to join the Kla Tham Party.