Bhumjaithai party leader Anutin Charnvirakul has made clear that his party will join the coalition that commands the majority in the House of Representatives but on the condition that the alliance accepts the party’s policy to legalize cannabis (kanja) and its products.
“Our conditions are loyalty (to the Monarchy), working hard, no conflicts, working for the people in addition to accepting and implementing the party’s policies. We will not join any coalition which rejects our “free kanja” policy, instead we will then join the Opposition,” said Mr. Anutin during a seminar in Thailand’s northeastern province of Buri Ram on Monday to brief its MPs.
Touching on the party’s decision over which camp to join, Pheu Thai or Palang Pracharat, Mr. Anutin said that he first needs to get approval from the party’s executive committee and MPs.
He said he would announce a decision at the appropriate time, adding that other parties are also expected to announce their positions this Thursday or Friday.
He dismissed speculation that the party and the Democrats were in the process of forming a third alternative coalition in the race to form the government, saying that the issue has never been discussed with the Democrats.
Commenting on opinion polls, which show most respondents want the Bhumjaithai party to take the public health portfolio to pursue its “free cannabis” policy, Mr. Anutin said it is premature to talk about this issue.
