Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, leader of the Progressive movement, and reputedly the de facto leader of the People party, admitted that he had met with former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra for a discussion about support for Pheu Thai’s prime ministerial candidate, Chaikasem Nitisiri.
Thanathorn, who is currently serving a ten-year ban on involvement in parliamentary politics, said that the People party had made their position clear about two months ago, namely that parliament must be dissolved in four months and that a referendum be held on the drafting of a new charter.
He also said that, if the Pheu Thai party agrees with these two conditions, it can proceed to speak directly with the leader of the party, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut.
He dismissed speculation that the same issue might be discussed among the Juangroongruangkit family, as two of its members, Transport Minister Suriya and Labour Minister Pongkawin, are in the Pheu Thai-led government, noting politics should not be intertwined with family affairs.
Thanathorn made clear that the People party does not seek power or to be in the government, but wants a new parliament, through a general election, to lead the country.
Asked about the four-month timeline for House dissolution, he explained that the People party had carefully thought it out and believes that it is sufficient time for the holding of the referendum.
He maintains that holding a general election is the best path for Thailand’s political future because, currently, none of the three major parties, among them the People, Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai parties, command sufficient votes to form a new government.
