Bangkok MP Chaiyamphawan joins Thai Progress Party following MFP expulsion

Bangkok MP Chaiyamphawan Manpianjit faces expulsion from the opposition Move Forward Party (MFP) following accusations of sexual harassment.

The MP has now found a new political home, joining another party, a move that ensures he retains his position in the House.

The announcement about Chaiyamphawan’s shift to a new party was made late last night, November 28, by his spokesperson, who refrained from divulging further details. However, the Secretariat of the House of Representatives website confirmed today, November 29, that Chaiyamphawan is currently an active member of the Thai Progress Party, led by Watcharaphol Butmonkhol. Interestingly, he is the first MP to join the party.

The Thai Progress Party, boasting 5,022 members, garnered 34,559 votes in the General Election held in May.

The 34 year old MP, also known as Pu-ad, found himself amid a scandal when he was accused of sexually harassing three female assistants.

In a decisive move on November 7, both executives and party MPs of MFP voted unanimously, resulting in his expulsion, reported Bangkok Post.

As per the law, an MP who is expelled from a party is given a 30-day window to join another party. Failure to do so results in the loss of their seat.

Chaiyamphawan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts from Bangkok University and a Bachelor of Political Science with a major in Politics and Governance from Ramkhamhaeng University. The MP is actively involved as a representative of the Resolution Group, passionately campaigning for amendments to the People’s Constitution.

In 2011, Pu-ad participated in the a-play Singing Fighter competition, hosted by the online radio station a-play. During this event, he showcased his vocal prowess by rendering notable songs such as Sleepwalking Stone, Sleeping Beauty, and Stop, alongside international tunes. Remarkably, Pu-ad also demonstrated his drumming skills on this platform.

Earlier this month, Pu-ad defended his innocence and declined to step down despite growing calls for his resignation. The controversy follows the expulsion of fellow party member, Wuttiphong Thonglour, MP for Prachin Buri, over similar charges. Read more about this story HERE.