Amid public calls to withdraw from the coalition, key partner parties Kla Tham, Prachachart, Democrat, and Chart Thai Pattana have decided to remain following party meetings on Thursday.
The United Thai Nation, the second largest party remaining in the coalition, has said that it will only make a definite decision after holding talks with the prime minister. It has, however, called for Paetongtarn to resign, reported local media.
News site Khaosod English reported the party is proposing that Pheu Thai’s third-ranked candidate, Chaikasem Nitisiri, replace Paetongtarn.
Meanwhile, the Democrat Party on Friday issued a statement following a meeting of its executive committee the previous day. It confirmed its decision to remain a coalition partner in the government to continue managing the country’s affairs and address the ongoing issues Thailand faces, media outlet The Nation reported.
Party spokesperson Jenjira Rattanaphian admitted there were differing opinions but emphasised the party remains unified.
Reports, however, noted that at least three of its deputy leaders said during the meeting that they might reconsider their roles within the party in light of the political situation.
Chart Thai Pattana party leader Varawut Silpa-archa – who is also the Minister of Social Development and Human Security – has also emphasised national security and the need for a strong government, reported The Nation.
“Regarding the situation at the Thai-Cambodian border, a strong government is crucial for ensuring territorial sovereignty. Therefore, we wish to speak with the prime minister first as we still lack complete information,” Varawut was quoted as saying by The Nation, referring to the leaked phone conversation.
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