Bhumjaithai MP faces possible expulsion for Kla Dharma ties
The Bhumjaithai Party is reportedly considering the expulsion of Khon Kaen Member of Parliament (MP) Ekkarat Changlao after he was recently seen attending a Kla Dharma Party event held to establish a branch in the northeastern province.
Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of Bhumjaithai, revealed that party members have put forward a proposal to review Ekkarat’s actions and potentially remove him from the party. Anutin emphasised that there must be solid grounds for such an expulsion, and discussions on the specifics will follow.
Anutin, who also serves as the interior minister, mentioned his current focus on overseeing earthquake relief efforts, resulting in uncertainty regarding the timing of the party meeting.
Ekkarat attended the Khon Kaen event on Saturday, March 29, to congratulate his son, Pitakchon, on his appointment as a Kla Dharma branch chief.
The event attracted notable Kla Dharma figures, including Chief Adviser Thamanat Prompow. Ekkarat has previously indicated his intention to join the Kla Dharma Party if expelled from Bhumjaithai, expressing that he would find it more comfortable to work with the new party.
He stated that Anutin was aware of his intentions and understood his reasoning.
Ekkarat anticipates an imminent expulsion rather than waiting until the next election, which would enable him to transition to another party while maintaining his MP status. He remains confident this move will not pose any issues since both Bhumjaithai and Kla Dharma are part of the coalition led by Pheu Thai.
Ekkarat has contemplated this decision for six months, ultimately selecting Kla Dharma due to his close relationship with Thamanat, reported Bangkok Post.
In other political news, opposition MP Krit Silapachai claimed that he was offered up to 20 million baht and a desirable job to vote in favor of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during a no-confidence debate.
Krit’s Facebook post on March 26th alleged that a senior figure from a soon-to-be-dissolved party, made the offer.
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