Pheu Thai rejects BJT, Prayut chatter

Return of former PM rumours 'fake news'

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA

The ruling Pheu Thai Party has dismissed speculation it is in the middle of nominating former PM, Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha, as a candidate for premier in the next poll or reuniting with the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT), its former coalition partner, which recently broke away to join the opposition.

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, who also serves as Pheu Thai secretary-general, yesterday called the speculation “fake news” and stressed it did not originate from the party.

Instead, he reaffirmed Pheu Thai's backing of suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, saying he was confident she would be cleared when the Constitutional Court rules on Aug 29 in the ongoing audio clip case.