Former Bangkok MP Wan Ubumrung has dramatically departed from the Pheu Thai Party after coming under fire for mingling with an adversary during a recent local election in Pathum Thani. On Monday, Mr. Wan formally submitted his resignation to the Election Commission (EC) with immediate effect, marking a surprising twist in the political landscape.
Emerging from the EC with a mix of resolve and resignation, Mr. Wan explained that his decision came after being summoned by the party to account for his appearance at the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chairman election in Pathum Thani, which concluded on June 30. The point of contention? A post-election encounter with Pol Lt Gen Kamronwit Toopkrajang, who ran in the PAO race as a candidate for Khon Rak Pathum (Love Pathum) and happens to be a close family friend.
The graceful but contentious meeting was intended as a gesture of sympathy, as Pol Lt Gen Kamronwit had narrowly lost to Pheu Thai’s candidate Charn Phuangphet by a mere 2,000 votes. However, this act of compassion did not sit well with Pheu Thai’s leadership. Consequently, Mr. Wan was called in to explain himself to the party’s executives, including leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on July 9.
During the meeting, Mr. Wan argued that his actions were innocent, especially considering Pol Lt Gen Kamronwit’s historical ties to former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, a figure held in high esteem by the Pheu Thai Party. He clarified that the meeting occurred after the polls had closed, ensuring it had no impact on the election results.
“Initially, I had no intention of quitting the party when I walked into the July 9 meeting with Pheu Thai executives,” Mr. Wan confessed. “However, it became clear that the party was displeased with me. I never imagined that what I did was so wrong, even though I was repentant about the encounter.”
Facing a lack of support from party executives, Mr. Wan decided that staying on was no longer a viable option. “I can’t stay on now that the party executives are no longer happy with me,” he remarked, his voice tinged with a mix of disappointment and determination.
Adding fuel to the fire, Mr. Wan suggested that his value to the party might have diminished after his loss in last year’s general election in Bangkok’s Bang Bon constituency to the Move Forward Party (MFP). But he wasn’t alone in facing defeat; Pheu Thai had been bested in all but one of Bangkok’s 33 constituencies by the MFP. “The party should reflect on its poll performance,” he asserted.
In a twist that could spell further drama, Mr. Wan hinted at political maneuvering involving his father, Pol Capt Chalerm Ubumrung. He suggested that the party might consider expelling his father as a list MP, a move that would allow him to retain his MP status and potentially switch allegiances to another party.
As for his own future, Mr. Wan revealed he is open to offers from other parties interested in recruiting him. Despite the turmoil, he admitted to maintaining close ties with Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, suggesting potential alliances that could shake up the political scene further.
Meanwhile, Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra seemed to downplay the controversy, noting that the discussion with Mr. Wan was over and done with. “There’s nothing more to it,” she said, adding her respect for his decision to leave the party, even if it wasn’t what she wanted.
As the dust settles, one thing is certain: the exit of Mr. Wan Ubumrung has created ripples that could reverberate through Thailand’s political arena for some time to come.
I can’t believe Pheu Thai is so intolerant of a friendly meeting! Are they that insecure about their election results?
It’s not about insecurity, it’s about party unity. Mixing with the opposition can create confusion and mistrust.
But he wasn’t promoting the opposition! It was after the elections, just a friendly gesture. Pheu Thai overreacted.
Mai, you have to admit that even a friendly meeting can have political implications. Politics isn’t always black and white.
That friendly meeting could be seen as disrespecting the hard work of Pheu Thai’s candidate who won. It undermines the party’s efforts.
Wan’s departure is a huge loss for Pheu Thai. He was one of their strong voices.
True, but his departure might force the party to rethink their strategies. Could be a blessing in disguise.
Not just a loss, it shows how divided the political climate is becoming. Intolerant of even slight deviations.
If Wan joins Bhumjaithai, does that mean we’ll see more political drama? I can’t keep up!
That’s politics for you – always shifting alliances. It’s like a never-ending soap opera!
Or like a chess game. Every move counts. One wrong move and you’re out of the game.
The political landscape is always changing. It’s the nature of democracy. We just got to watch and adapt.
The real issue here is Pheu Thai’s sweeping loss in Bangkok. They need to address that, not just focus on Wan.
Agreed. Losing to MFP in that many constituencies is alarming. They should listen to what people want.
They’re losing touch with the people. Maybe it’s time for new leadership or a new approach altogether.
Good point, Wei. The election results are a reflection of deeper issues within the party. Wan’s departure is just a symptom.
How can Wan still maintain ties with Anutin after all this? Politics does make strange bedfellows.
It’s all about mutual interest. They can still work together if it benefits both parties.
Indeed. Political allegiances are often about what works best at the time, not personal feelings.
It’s strategic. Wan is keeping his options open for future alliances and opportunities.
What does this say about the loyalty in our political system? Can politicians be trusted at all?
Politicians are always looking for the best deal for themselves. It’s just how the game is played.
Loyalty is rare in politics. Everyone is out for themselves or their own agenda.
It’s not about trust. It’s about power and survival. Loyalty is often secondary.
This could be the start of more people leaving Pheu Thai. The party needs to address its internal issues fast.
Is it just me, or does Pheu Thai seem to be struggling to keep its members united? This could be a sign of deeper problems.
Not just you. The cracks are showing, and other parties will take advantage of that.
They need some new strategies quickly, or they might see more defections.
I respect Wan for standing his ground, even if it didn’t go well for him. Shows character.
Wondering if this is all just a distraction from more significant issues. Keeps people focused on drama instead of real problems.