Klatham seen as prepping for coalition rift

The Klatham Party's luring of MPs from other political parties is a calculated move to boost its bargaining power as well as to support the Pheu Thai Party in case the latter severs its political ties with Bhumjaithai, according to political observers.

- MONGKOL BANGPRAPA AEKARACH SATTABURUTH

Klatham’s rise on the political scene is being closely watched after leader Narumon Pinyosinwat confirmed this week that more than 10 MPs from various other parties are expected to defect to it soon.

MPs are not legally proscribed from switching parties while serving unless they are expelled.

Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok’s Institute, said the recruitment of MPs by Klatham is a mediumand long-term plan to increase its political leverage to secure more cabinet posts.

“The party definitely wants more power to bargain for more ministerial seats. Although the MPs can’t simply switch parties, they can still vote as instructed by Klatham when key legislative drafts such as the budget bill are put up for a vote in the House of Representatives,” he said.