Chart Pattana denies moves to merge with Palang Pracharat

It had been reported elsewhere that the so-called “Three Friends” group had approached former Chart Pattana MPs to join Palang Pracharat.
The Three Friends were said to be serving as power brokers for Palang Pracharat, which is widely believed to be aimed at ensuring Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha can return to his post after the next election.
Spokesman Chalitrat Chantharubeksa said Chart Pattana had no plans to disband so its members could join Palang Pracharat.
He said Chart Pattana was ready to begin preparing for the election as soon as the military junta lifts restrictions on political activities.
Once that happens, Chalitrat said, the party would elect a leader and executive board, announce policies, form branches and begin recruiting new members.
The party’s policies would focus on economic development, support for the grassroots and political reconciliation, he said.