Thamanat aiming to ice BJT out of govt

The latest “cobra” incident — involving a politician defecting to the Klatham Party — demonstrates Capt Thamanat Prompow’s fervent attempts to make his party an alternative choice for the Paetongtarn Shinawatra government.

- Chairith Yonpiam

There have been quite a few skirmishes between Pheu Thai and its major coalition partner, Bhumjaithai (BJT) — suggesting intense power games that are intensifying by the day. The two parties can barely look each other in the eye following a probe into a land scandal involving members of the BJT leader's family in Pak Chong — said to have been arranged by Capt Thamanat. Reportedly under his direction, the DSI also investigated alleged poll-rigging involving senators linked to the BJT. Mounting conflicts have sparked speculation about a breakup — meaning Pheu Thai would need the support of a third party.

For Klatham, snatching MPs from other parties is a quick tactic to recruit new members. Having more politicians under its wings would boost its bargaining power for more seats in the Paetongtarn cabinet.

The latest “political cobra” is Krit Chevathamanon, a Chon Buri MP for the People’s Party. The politician's claims about differences with other PP colleagues as a reason for leaving the opposition party were questionable. Analysts see the departure as part of a vicious circle, with politicians placing their own gains before the public’s interest. Another politician in the People’s Party told the media that more fellow politicians, especially those in the eastern region, are packing their bags. It said each prospective defector gets an alluring offer: a lump sum of money, up to 55 million baht, with a 250,000-baht monthly salary, and a luxury vehicle.

However, with no signs of new elections or a situation in which a party is about to be dissolved, such an “out-of-season” offer is quite unusual.