Palang Pracharath Party Denies Leader’s Political Retirement Amid Internal Changes

BANGKOK: The Palang Pracharath Party has refuted claims that its leader, Gen. Prawit Wongsuwan, is stepping down from politics, following a significant internal decision to expel 20 MPs. The party asserts its readiness to participate in the upcoming election with strengthened leadership. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Paiboon Nititawan, the party's secretary-general, announced the outcome of a recent joint meeting involving the party's executive committee and its MPs. The gathering resulted in a resolution to expel 20 MPs associated with Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao, a representative for Phayao, from party membership. The decision was made in accordance with party regulations, requiring a minimum of three-quarters approval, with the expelled members abstaining from the vote. Mr. Paiboon stated that the expulsion vote was finalized, marking the immediate end of membership for the 20 MPs. The next step involves submitting a detailed meeting report, including supporting evidence, to the Election Commission ( EC). He noted that the affected MPs would delay joining other parties to avoid any technical complications, ensuring a thorough process before EC submission. The atmosphere of the meeting was described as smooth, with Gen. Prawit emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations to maintain the party's strength and stability. The party plans to engage in weekly processes, with the executive committee coordinating with the MPs to function as an effective opposition. Additionally, the party is focusing on candidate selection for upcoming elections and addressing issues such as flood assistance in the southern region. In response to rumors about Gen. Prawit's retirement and potential transfer of party leadership, Mr. Paiboon clarified that Gen. Prawit intends to continue leading the Palang Pracharath Party indefinitely. He is committed to nurturing strong party leadership, personally selecting MP candidates alongside deputy party leaders, and maintaining close ties with party members. Gen. Prawit is optimi stic about increasing the number of MPs in the next election.