Bangkok: Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, a prominent academic, has highlighted the critical role of Pirapan Salirathavibhaga's decision in shaping the future of Thai politics. As the leader of the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party, Pirapan's choice is seen as a pivotal moment for the continuation of the current government under Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra. Somchai believes that the government's survival hinges on Pirapan's final decision.
According to Thai News Agency, Somchai elaborated on the current composition of the House, which consists of 495 members, requiring at least 248 votes for a majority. With the Bhumjaithai party's withdrawal, the government is left with 255 votes, and Ruam Thai Sang Chart holds 36 votes. Even if half of Ruam Thai Sang Chart's votes, which is 18, were counted, the government's total would still fall short of a majority. On the first day when crucial legislation had to be passed, this discrepancy became evident. Ruam Thai Sang Chart's proposal to replace the current prime minister with Mr. Chaikasem Nitisiri, or to withdraw from the coalition, is seen as a significant move. While Pheu Thai may attempt to negotiate the passing of the 2026 budget during the third reading to ensure the country's progress, Somchai argues that such a rationale is insufficient. He emphasizes that the House and the executive are distinct entities, and even if the prime minister resigns, the budget law that has passed one reading remain s valid.
Somchai asserts that if the Prime Minister decides not to resign and Ruam Thai Sang Chart exits the coalition, it would mark a transformative moment in Thai political history. This decision could elevate Pirapan's status to that of a democratic hero, akin to Mr. Athit Ourairat's nomination of Mr. Anand Panyarachun for Prime Minister during the political turmoil of 1992. Conversely, should Pirapan opt to remain with the government in exchange for a key ministerial position, both his and the Ruam Thai Sang Chart Party's legacy in Thai political history could take on a different significance.