In a dramatic twist reminiscent of a political thriller, the Bhumjaithai Party is gearing up to possibly seize the coveted position of first deputy House speaker. This power play unfolds as the Move Forward Party faces potential dissolution in the coming week.
Currently, the esteemed position is held by Padipat Suntiphada, a Fair Party MP for Phitsanulok. Once aligned with Move Forward, Padipat nabbed the role amid political reshuffling. Unfortunately, if the Move Forward Party is disbanded, Padipat’s tenure will be abruptly curtailed under legal constraints.
By law, the main opposition party cannot have its members holding key parliamentary roles. Demonstrating political finesse, Padipat had himself expelled from Move Forward, allowing him to cling to his deputy speaker seat while enabling the party to spearhead the opposition.
A ticking clock hangs over Move Forward as the Constitutional Court preps for an August 7 ruling. Should the gavel fall against them, former executives like Padipat would face a political ban, stripping them of MP status and key roles they hold.
This tumult was incited when the Election Commission accused Move Forward of breaching Section 92 of the political parties’ organic law. This came after the court previously judged on January 31 that their ambitions to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code—specifically, the lese-majeste law—were seen as attempts to disrupt the constitutional monarchy.
The Election Commission went further, urging the court to block Move Forward’s executives from not only future electoral pursuits but also from establishing or guiding a new political entity for a decade.
In the midst of this high-stakes drama, Bhumjaithai, the coalition’s second-largest party, eyes the deputy House speaker’s position eagerly. Anutin Charnvirakul, Bhumjaithai’s dynamic leader, emphasized that any steps toward filling the role must respect proper protocols and political decorum.
Reflecting on last year’s tumultuous events, Anutin noted the atypical arrangement of speaker roles following the general election. A pact between Move Forward and the Pheu Thai Party led to securing the deputy speaker spot for Padipat, even as the alliance struggled to form a coalition government with Pheu Thai ultimately charting its course with other parties.
The current House Speaker, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, a veteran from the Prachachat Party, was thrust into his role to dissolve a deadlock between Pheu Thai and Move Forward. Indeed, the first deputy speaker’s post was a strategic award to Move Forward amidst these negotiations.
“Now, as circumstances normalize, Bhumjaithai must prepare to contest for the post should Move Forward be dissolved,” said Anutin, his composed demeanor belying the high stakes. “Nonetheless, I extend my moral support to Mr. Padipat and hope for favorable outcomes for all involved.”
Remaining coy on rumors about his party’s potential nominee for the role—Bhumjaithai MP Paradorn Prissanananthakul—Anutin chose to keep speculation at bay, focusing instead on the principles guiding his party.
It’s a riveting political saga, blending strategy, allegiance, and the relentless churn of power dynamics. As the clock ticks down to the court’s fateful decision, Bhumjaithai’s machinations are nothing short of a masterclass in political maneuvering.
Related: New Senate a sea of Bhumjaithai blue
Bhumjaithai maneuvering for power again, are we surprised? The political game they play is both fascinating and unsettling.
True, but isn’t that what politics is all about? Grabbing every opportunity.
But at what cost? The people suffer while politicians play their games.
Exactly, the focus should be on the citizens, not just power grabs.
The dissolution of Move Forward could be catastrophic for Thai democracy. Other parties will only get more complacent.
Agreed. Move Forward was one of the few that dared to challenge the status quo.
But wasn’t Move Forward’s idea to change the lese-majeste law a bit too radical?
Radical or not, democracy needs debate and diverse opinions.
This just proves that all political parties are the same. Bhumjaithai is no different from the rest.
Don’t be so cynical, some parties really aim for change.
Still, the constant infighting and power struggles make it hard to trust any of them.
Padipat being forced out is really unfortunate. He was trying to play the game and got burned.
He knew the risks. Sometimes you have to take a stand, regardless of the outcome.
Yes, but the system should support such courage, not punish it.
Anutin Charnvirakul is a master at navigating political waters. Bhumjaithai might just get what they want.
It all depends on the court’s ruling, but yeah, Bhumjaithai is playing their cards well.
Exactly, and the court ruling will be a game-changer.
It’s a harsh reminder of how politics can be ruthless and unforgiving. Move Forward will have a tough road ahead.
Shouldn’t the focus be on creating policies for the betterment of people rather than fighting for positions?
In an ideal world, yes. But this is politics, after all.
Bhumjaithai playing by the rules to get what they want is both impressive and concerning. What example does this set?
They’re exploiting the loopholes, but it shows the weaknesses in the system.
This whole saga is a political chess game. I’m curious to see how it plays out.
Definitely, it’s like watching a drama unfold.
Move Forward tried to push boundaries and now they are paying the price. Maybe they were too ambitious?
Or maybe they were exactly what Thai politics needed. A shake-up.
Padipat’s expulsion shows that no good deed goes unpunished in Thai politics.
Interesting how Anutin is keeping quiet about his candidate, a smart move to avoid unnecessary speculation.
This court ruling is going to have long-lasting effects, not just for Move Forward but for Thailand’s political landscape.
The fact that the Election Commission is pushing so hard is a sign that there’s more going on behind the scenes.
So, is this all about power or does anyone care about the laws and the people?
Seems like power plays to me. Typical politics.
I just hope that whatever happens, Thailand comes out stronger and more united.