People's Party's big test

The People's Party has emerged as a potential game changer in a political landscape upended by the Constitutional Court's ruling to remove prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and her cabinet from office.

- 

Whichever side it supports between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai will almost certainly form the next government, with its candidate elevated to the premiership.

Never before has a progressive force such as the People's Party commanded such leverage. Even after winning the largest share of seats in the 2023 general election, it was denied the chance to govern, blocked by old-guard politics and betrayed by supposed allies. Today, however, it has a rare opportunity not only to influence the formation of a government but also to shape Thailand's direction for years to come.

Yet a single wrong move risks not only wasting this opportunity but also damaging the party's credibility and long-term popularity. Its decision on which side to support must therefore be carefully considered; above all, whether that decision will bring about the structural changes Thailand desperately needs.