First coalition party dinner signals unity and relaxed political discourse

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reported a warm atmosphere at the first coalition party dinner held on November 8, with no bargaining for political gains witnessed among the government parties. The dinner, hosted by the leading Pheu Thai Party, was attended by leaders of coalition parties and was deemed successful enough to warrant monthly repeats, as reported by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

The dinner marked the first gathering of its kind since the establishment of the government two months ago. The Bhumjaithai Party is set to host the next gathering. According to the prime minister, the casual dinner setting allowed coalition members to freely exchange ideas and offer advice about their work.

PM Srettha, who has a background in real estate, expressed his relative inexperience in politics and his openness to guidance from coalition leaders with more political experience.

Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, leader of the United Thai Nation (UTN) Party, Bhumjaithai’s Anutin Charnvirakul, the Palang Pracharath Party’s Police General Phatcharavat Wongsuwan, who attended in place of his elder brother and party leader General Prawit Wongsuwon, and Chart Thai Pattana Party’s Varawut Silpa-archa were all present at the dinner. Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra also attended.

Expressing his appreciation for the extensive political experience of the party leaders, the Pheu Thai prime minister confirmed he has taken their advice seriously. The 61 year old Thai PM acknowledged that the dinner, which lasted until 10pm, was conducted in a relaxed and friendly environment, devoid of any heavy discussions or trading of political favours, reported Bangkok Post.

Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham reported that the dinner led to an agreement among coalition parties for improved coordination. He also dismissed any involvement in a dispute with Minister of Industry, Pimphattra Wichaikul from the UTN over the freeze in sugar prices.

Phumtham, who also serves as the Minister of Commerce, had previously ordered a freeze on sugar prices by declaring it a controlled commodity, a move feared by the Ministry of Industry for potentially disrupting the equilibrium in domestic sugar supply.

Following speculation about internal discord prompting the dinner gathering, the government insisted its unity remains steadfast.