MFP’s bold stance amid PM Srettha scandal
Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Chaithawat Tulathon quashed rumours that his party may align with the Pheu Thai party to form a new government if Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is ousted by the Constitutional Court for gross ethical misconduct. The scandal centres around the 62 year old Thai prime minister’s appointment of convicted Phichit Chuenban as PM Office minister.
“The Move Forward Party is committed to a long-term political vision and does not engage in short-term political manoeuvres.”
Chaithawat emphasised that the current political landscape is so turbulent that even a new government would struggle to function effectively. Despite the speculation, he also pointed out that the Pheu Thai Party has never approached the MFP for any potential collaboration.
Bangkok-born Srettha is set to submit his rebuttal to the Constitutional Court on Monday. This follows a petition by around 40 senators calling for his removal over the controversial appointment of Pichit.
The political drama is a continuation of tensions following the May 14 elections last year. Initially, Pheu Thai and MFP, along with several smaller parties, formed a coalition government. However, the alliance crumbled when former MFP leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s bid for prime minister failed to gain enough parliamentary support, reported Thai PBS World.
In related news, Pita stated he is ready to lead the country if the law permits and PM Srettha is ousted by a court verdict. A prominent figure in the party, the 43 year old former MFP leader expressed readiness to take the reins amid growing political uncertainty. At the Bangkok Pride Parade held at the National Stadium on Saturday, Pita, a party-list MP and chief adviser to the MFP leader, shared his views in an exclusive interview.
In other news, the MFP submitted its written defence to the Constitutional Court regarding the dissolution case initiated by the Election Commission (EC), according to a source.
