Narumon Pinyosinwat, a former key member of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), has categorically denied any connection between the little-known Kla Dharma Party, which recently elected her as its new leader, and her former political home. During an assembly held at a plush Bangkok hotel, Ms. Narumon succeeded Chawengsak Jaidam as the new leader of Kla Dharma.
The Kla Dharma Party, translating to “Dharma Courage,” emerged from the remnants of the Setthakij Thai Party, a party which had some historical ties to the PPRP. This earlier party was primarily established to accommodate PPRP’s secretary-general, Capt Thamanat Prompow, and his loyal MPs after they clashed with the PPRP over a failed no-confidence vote against then-Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha. Capt Thamanat and his followers eventually returned to the PPRP’s fold.
However, Kla Dharma is charting its own course. The assembly saw an impressive turnout of over 250 members, who enthusiastically voted for Ms. Narumon as their new leader. Alongside her, other key officials were elected: Sajjawit Leelawanij as secretary-general, Alongkorn Promkatkaew as treasurer, and Suppakit Panya as the party registrar. The executive board features prominent names including Wichai Penpanassak, Kijpob Kanthamit, Theerasak Sitthichaithanakij, Thassachon Boonsaenchai, Kampaeng Thamna, Prasit Naktue, and Panatda Kantha.
Upon her appointment, Ms. Narumon addressed the assembly, asserting that the party would uphold the principles of a constitutional monarchy, adhere strictly to the rule of law, and focus on boosting investor confidence as well as fostering international relations. She emphasized that despite parting ways with PPRP nearly a year ago, she has remained dedicated to promoting trade and investments. Interestingly, her recent appointment as the prime minister’s adviser, coupled with her role as a Thai trade representative, underscored her commitment to these goals.
In shedding light on Kla Dharma’s independence, Ms. Narumon was unequivocal in her denial of any connection to the PPRP, underscoring that she hadn’t even spoken to Capt Thamanat recently. She reinforced that Kla Dharma has a distinct agenda, and its executives and members are legally registered and fully independent of PPRP’s influence.
Capt Thamanat also stepped forward to dispel any rumors, stating firmly that Kla Dharma is not a reserve faction for the PPRP. He stressed that Kla Dharma operates independently and has a unique approach to political business.
All signs point to an exciting future for Kla Dharma as it stakes its claim on the political landscape, ready to carve out its own niche, steer clear of past affiliations, and march boldly towards its goals.
This sounds like another PPRP puppet party. Isn’t Ms. Narumon just a way to get around the stigma associated with PPRP?
Not really. She’s clear that Kla Dharma is charting its own course. People should give her a chance before jumping to conclusions.
A chance? How many ‘second chances’ do politicians in Thailand get? This sounds like more of the same to me.
Exactly! It’s politics as usual. Rebranding doesn’t change underlying loyalties.
If you really believe that, I have a bridge to sell you. Politics here is all about power and alliances.
Some people genuinely want change. Can’t we believe in that?
Maybe you’re too cynical. Let’s judge her actions, not just her past affiliations.
Ms. Narumon is known for her work in trade. Maybe this party will focus more on economic progress rather than political games?
Economic progress? What about social justice and democracy? Those seem sidelined.
As long as the economy improves, everything else will follow. Prioritizing economics is not a bad thing.
Isn’t it a bit suspicious that she was appointed as PM’s advisor and then became the leader of Kla Dharma?
Not really. It shows that she has credentials and is trusted. This is how politics works.
Or it’s all part of a bigger plan. Nothing is straightforward in politics.
Call it what you want, but effective politics requires alliances and support. This is just smart maneuvering.
Why do people keep attacking her? Maybe it’s time for a female leader who prioritizes economics and international relations.
It’s not about her being female; it’s about trust. Does she genuinely represent change or just another façade?
We won’t know unless we let her lead without prejudice. Everyone deserves a fair shot.
Promoting trade and investor confidence sounds good, but what about transparency and combating corruption?
250 members voting for her doesn’t impress me. Sounds like classic political maneuvering.
You could say the same about any party election anywhere. Democracy isn’t perfect.
True, but it’s more about how genuine these members are. Are they puppets or independent thinkers?
Kla Dharma’s commitment to the rule of law and constitutional monarchy is just what Thailand needs right now.
If they really want to be independent, why not more transparency about their funding?
Transparency is key, but it’s missing in most political parties, not just Kla Dharma.
Capt Thamanat’s statement feels very scripted. Independent? We’ll see.
Boosting international relations is crucial, but won’t it create dependencies we can’t break free from?
International relations are vital. Look at the European Union and ASEAN – collaboration is the future.
It’s refreshing to see new faces in politics. Let’s hope they bring real change.
Narumon was involved in controversial policies before. How can we trust her now?
People can learn and change. Why judge her on previous affiliations?
Because past actions are the best indicator of future behavior. It’s plain common sense.
Kla Dharma looks like it’s focusing on business interests. They might ignore the grassroots people.
Politicians jumping ship and leading new parties isn’t new. I’ll believe it’s different when I see results.
It’s hard to know if Kla Dharma will bring genuine change, but leadership by a determined figure like Ms. Narumon is promising.
Focusing on the rule of law is critical. Isn’t it a good sign that she’s prioritizing this?