The Pheu Thai Party, backed by previous premier Thaksin Shinawatra, is in favour of rising more partners into its collaboration as it attempts to rupture the political gridlock that has a hold on Thailand since the May 14 election. Six junior parties will be a part of the alliance established earlier this week by second- and third-place election winners, Pheu Thai (141) and Bhumjaithai Party (71), said Pheu Thai ruler Cholnan Srikaew at a press conference on Wednesday.
The six parties holds 16 seats, rising the total number of coalition MPs to 228. This is still less of an ordinary majority in the 500-member Lower House, as Pheu Thai goes on to drum up help in anticipation of the approaching parliamentary sitting where lawmakers will vote for Thailand’s next prime minister. The new parties to be a part of the coalition are Prachachat, Seri Ruam Thai, Plung Sungkom Mai, Party of Thai Counties, Pue Thai Rumphlang and Chartpattana Kla. The Pheu Thai-led bloc initially had 212 members.
Mr Cholnan said Pheu Thai thinks it will be able to resolve the stalemate, and asked for cooperation from all lawmakers to elect its PM candidate, real estate mogul Srettha Thavisin, 60, whilst the vote. “The sooner we can make a government, the easier we will be able to resolve the issue,” said Mr Cholnan, pointing out to the requirement to end political polarisation so the nation can go ahead.