Thailand: Path open for PPRP coalition

• A Democrat source said on 29 May 19 that the PPRP has agreed to let the Democrat Party take the three ministerial positions it demands, clearing the way for a coalition government to be formed successfully.
• As it stands, the Democrats will get the three cabinet seats: agriculture, commerce and social development, and human security, which it desires to pursue its policies, including the farm price guarantee.
• The source also explained that the Democrat Party abruptly cancelled a meeting to decide whether to join a coalition led by the PPRP, as the PPRP was not clear as to who was leading the negotiations.
• Apart from PPRP leader Uttama Savanayana and secretary-general Sontirat Sontijirawong, the PPRP also sent Somsak Thepsuthin and Suriya Jungrungreangkit from the Sam Mitr group who insisted on keeping the three ministerial positions.
• Mr. Uttama denied speculation that the PPRP would press ahead with a vote for a prime minister and announce the formation of its coalition government without waiting for the Democrat Party to come aboard.
• Mr. Uttama said that there is still time left to form a coalition government, although he admitted that a definite time frame could not still be given.
• Mr. Uttama also said that the PPRP would be approaching the Chartthaipattana and Chart Pattana parties to formally ask them to join the coalition.
• Asked to comment on any possible impacts on coalition formation if the Democrat Party refuses to join the PPRP-led coalition, Mr Anutin said that it would mean Bhumjaithai’s demand for a stable government would not be met.
• Meanwhile, Democrat deputy leader Nipon Boonyamanee insisted that the Democrats’ demand for constitutional amendments and its policies such as income guarantees for farmers must be incorporated into the next government’s policies.

External Link: https://m.bangkokpost.com/news/politics/1685936/path-open-for-pprp-coalition