Thailand’s political landscape is currently experiencing significant turbulence as the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT), a key partner in the government led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has taken steps towards withdrawing from the governing coalition. The party cited the incident which occurred earlier today involving the Prime Minister that could lead to sovereignty concerns. However, a simmering dispute over ministerial portfolios could be the cause as well.
Sovereignty Concerns Spark Immediate Withdrawal
The Bhumjaithai Party has formally announced its decision to withdraw from the government following a telephone negotiation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Hun Sen, the President of the Cambodian Senate. The letter submitted by BJT asserts that this phone call has negatively impacted Thailand’s sovereignty, territory, interests, and the Royal Thai Armed Forces.
In response to this incident, the Bhumjaithai Party’s executive committee convened and unanimously voted for the party to withdraw from the government. As a direct consequence, all Bhumjaithai Party ministers have submitted their resignation letters to the Prime Minister, with their resignations becoming effective on 19 June 2568.
The party has publicly called for Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra to take responsibility for what it describes as a dishonoring of Thailand’s prestige, national dignity, the people, and the armed forces. The BJT has also affirmed its readiness to cooperate with the Thai people and support the armed forces and officials in upholding Thailand’s sovereignty, territory, and national interests by all means possible.
Ministerial Portfolio Dispute Adds to Coalition Strain
Adding to the tension is an ongoing disagreement regarding ministerial appointments, specifically over the coveted Ministry of Interior portfolio. Although this is not cited in the withdrawal letter, a report from the government sector indicates that the Bhumjaithai Party is prepared to withdraw immediately should a looming cabinet reshuffle fail to honor prior agreements concerning ministerial positions.
The dispute intensified during a meeting between Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister, and Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, who serves as both Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, as well as the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party. During this discussion, Dr. Prommin proposed an exchange: the Pheu Thai Party (Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s party) would take the Ministry of Interior, and in return, Bhumjaithai would receive two other positions — the Minister of Public Health and a Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office. However, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul categorically rejected this proposal, firmly stating that the suggestion “violated the agreement” that had been previously established.
This strong ultimatum from the Bhumjaithai Party marks a critical juncture for the Thai government. The exit left the coalition party with just a small favor when it comes to parliamentary votes. Following this, the Pheu Thai-led party will have 261 votes, while the opposition has 234 votes.
