Klatham, Democrats shut out

A new coalition government led by Bhumjaithai will exclude the Klatham and Democrat parties, sources say.

- APINYA WIPATAYOTIN

Bhumjaithai Party sources indicated the emerging coalition, expected to command about 292 seats in parliament, will comprise Bhumjaithai, Pheu Thai, Palang Pracharath, Prachachat and several smaller parties. The arrangement leaves the Klatham Party, the Democrat Party and the Thai Ruamphalang Party outside the government.

The coalition structure was discussed during a seminar attended by Bhumjaithai's 192 MPs at Chang International Circuit in Buri Ram yesterday. Party executives presented a list of potential cabinet nominees to party leader and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul for final consideration.

The list contains more names than available cabinet positions, allowing Mr Anutin to make the final selection before the proposed ministers undergo background checks by state agencies.

Under the preliminary arrangement, Bhumjaithai is expected to control 26 cabinet posts across 14 ministries, making it the dominant force in the new administration.