PPRP’s internal clash: Coalition ‘parties’ divided

The Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) faces an internal conflict, highlighting clear divisions within the government coalition partner, according to a political analyst.

Phichai Ratnatilaka Na Bhuket, a political science lecturer at the National Institute of Development Administration, identified two factions within the PPRP: one led by party leader Prawit Wongsuwan and another by party secretary-general Thamanat Prompow.

Prawit, who has maintained a low political profile since the last General Election, holds no Cabinet position. In contrast, Thamanat serves as the Agriculture Minister in the coalition government and is perceived to have a close relationship with the ruling Pheu Thai Party.

A recent move by PPRP member Samart Janechaijitrawanich, claiming to have the party leader’s backing, has caused unrest within Thamanat’s faction. Some political observers suggest that Prawit might be making a strategic move.

Samart recently posted two songs: “Uncle Tu Starts, Uncle Pom Follows Up” and “From the Heart of Uncle Pom to All Thais.” These songs reference former prime minister and privy councillor Prayut Chan-o-cha (nicknamed “Tu”) and Prawit (nicknamed “Pom”), implying support for Prawit to become the next prime minister.

Thamanat has warned Samart to stop or face expulsion.

Ruling party competitor

Phichai noted that many believe the 78 year old’s political ambitions remain strong, and he might seek the prime minister position again if the political landscape allows. Observers believe Prawit is positioning himself as a competitor to the ruling party.

“Thamanat’s faction does not appear to support Prawit. The songs criticise the Pheu Thai-led government, which the party is part of, potentially alienating the party from Pheu Thai and jeopardising Thamanat’s position.”

Thamanat is thought to wield significant influence within the party, while Prawit is believed to have the support of about ten MPs but lacks an effective manager to handle his affairs.

Prawit’s waning influence could explain why he has invited firebrand politician Chalerm Ubumrung and his son, Wan, to join the party. While Wan has already switched to the PPRP, Chalerm cannot leave unless expelled. Pheu Thai has repeatedly refused to expel him.

“The alleged rift between Prawit and Thamanat might stem from their coalition relationship. Thamanat might believe that Prawit’s political career is nearing its end due to his age, aligning himself more with Pheu Thai,” the analyst said.

Phichai suggested that if Prawit decides to retire from politics, Thamanat would likely take over as party leader rather than form a new party. However, if Prawit remains until the next elections, Thamanat might establish a new party or merge with the Pheu Thai Party.

Political conflict

Phichai dismissed speculation that the PPRP would be removed from the government and replaced by the Democrat Party, its political rival.

“That would be Pheu Thai’s last resort, as they would need to address many questions from their supporters.”

PPRP MP for Kamphaeng Phet and party executive Phai Lik denied any conflict between Prawit and Thamanat, attributing the confusion to Samart.

Earlier, Phai posted a photo on Facebook of about thirty PPRP members, including Thamanat and Deputy Health Minister Santi Promphat, but without Prawit. He asserted that the party remains united and has gathered signatures to expel the troublemaker.

Phai explained that Prawit was not in the picture because he was not present at the time. The party feels the need to act against Samart because his actions could offend coalition partners and negatively portray the party leader, said Phichai.

“It is against political etiquette and could upset other parties.”

Government policies

When asked if Prawit remains in charge, Phai confirmed that the Bangkok-born politician steers the party’s activities, though the public might perceive Thamanat as more prominent due to Prawit’s low profile.

Phai emphasised that Thamanat’s relationship with Prawit remains strong, as does the unity among all executive members. The PPRP operates under Prawit’s guidance while promoting the party’s and the government’s policies under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s leadership.

Regarding the possibility of Thamanat joining the Pheu Thai Party, Phai said he could not predict the future but mentioned that the PPRP might welcome ten new MPs soon. He declined to elaborate further, referencing an upcoming Constitutional Court ruling on the dissolution of the Move Forward Party.

Founded ahead of the 2019 General Election, the PPRP was initially seen as a political vehicle to secure former prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha’s return. The party has undergone several changes, most notably when the “Four Boys” faction led by former finance minister Uttama Savanayana was purged to pave the way for Prawit’s leadership. At that time, Thamanat appeared as Prawit’s trusted lieutenant.

Thamanat and his faction were later expelled following a failed attempt to oust Prayut from power. They reunited with the party before last year’s election, while Prayut moved to the United Thai Nation Party and eventually retired from politics.