PM hopeful to people’s bridge: Pita’s vision for a unified Thailand

Pita Limjaroenrat, the man once tipped to be Thailand’s next prime minister, has a bold plan to unite his divided nation. At a panel discussion in Seoul, Pita described his Move Forward Party (MFP) as a bridge connecting conflicting factions to forge a new consensus for Thai society.

Speaking at the Asian Leadership Conference on Thursday, Pita, the former MFP leader, emphasised the urgent need for political reform to curb conflicts that could ignite violence. He shared insights on the party’s strategic election victory last year and the turbulent political landscape that followed, as opposing alliances vied to form a new government.

Addressing the audience, Pita detailed the struggles of ordinary Thais against the entrenched ruling elite, especially in the wake of numerous military coups. His party, he asserted, is dedicated to bridging societal divides and fostering a new collective understanding.

“We need to reform all political institutions to reduce the potential for violence and loss.”

When asked about the stark differences between Thais who crave rapid change and those resistant to it, Pita likened political reform to music.

“Changes must be done in slow and fast rhythms, like the melody of music. Some important issues may need to be changed first, while others require careful consideration and time to change gradually. The point is, everyone must be allowed true participation in setting the future of Thailand.”

On envisioning Thailand’s future, Pita expressed a common dream held by many Thais: to live well, earn a good living, and secure their families’ welfare, reported The Nation.

“But this dream will never come true as long as Thai politics is not good.”

In related news, the Constitutional Court has thrown a lifeline to the embattled MFP, granting a 15-day extension in their high-stakes battle against dissolution. Citing the noble cause of justice, this last-minute reprieve pushes the deadline to June 2, marking the final opportunity for the main opposition to salvage its political future.