THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
nationthailand

The future of Thai political parties

The future of Thai political parties

Times have changed in Thai politics, where yesterday’s enemies may become today’s allies in the face of a bigger common threat.

Both major political parties, Pheu Thai and the Democrats, must put their self-interest aside and unite. Can they? Or is “the game” already locked in, the pieces and the moves already determined?
The new constitution makes it difficult for the emergence of a dominant party, encouraging instead a weak coalition government much like the pre-Thai Rak Thai era. If the newly elected coalition government cannot unite, this will usher in military intervention. History will repeat itself. If political alliances do not happen, this, too, will extend today’s military rule. “Heads I win, tails you lose,” says the military. Such is the tragedy for Thais. 
Politicians from all sides have seen their reputations trashed over the last three years. Their “brand value” is at its lowest point, in contrast to the carefully cultivated “Army brand”. But with politicians, at least voters have some power to decide which party and policies rule. They are also free to criticise an elected government. Elected power is accountable, and if politicians don’t deliver as promised, the voters can choose another party at the next election. None of that is the case under our current rulers. 
With political parties in Thailand bruised and in tatters, foreign “sharks” are circling, waiting for the right moment to shape Thailand’s destiny. As one writer puts it, “If you can’t take care of your daughter, someone else will.”
How many more years of lost opportunities will ordinary Thais have to suffer as the battle between conservative and progressive forces rages? Ning from Udon Thani could have put her three kids through high school if it weren’t for the bad economy. Aunt Jib from the South could’ve saved enough for her back surgery. Ping from Chiang Mai could have landed an overseas scholarship to realise her dream of becoming a doctor if it weren’t for the budget cuts. 
It’s these kinds of invisible stories that build up to a picture of a generation of lost opportunities. 
Can politicians – or possibly the new generation of politicians – offer genuine leadership in place of military rule? Can new political parties help ordinary Thais achieve their dreams?  
Edward Kitlertsirivatana

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