Demococratic leader advocates for transformation amidst impending party predicament

In a candid address at the Democrats Party's annual general meeting, leader Chalermchai Sri-on underscored the necessity of ambitious transformation as the party grapples with a political crisis on the brink of its 80th anniversary.

Speaking at the Miracle Grand Hotel over the weekend, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment articulated that the party faces a severe predicament, currently holding only 25 MP seats.

With eight decades of political history under its belt, the party has weathered various ups and downs, a natural part of the political landscape. However, the consistent loss of seats over the past decade reflects more than just a crisis; it's a response to changing societal sentiments, Chalermchai highlighted.

Accepting the reality of the situation, Chalermchai urged his fellow Democrats to find the courage to adapt and progress, all while preserving their core principles and ideals. Reflecting on his 2019 election loss, Chalermchai expressed pride in his refusal to resort to dirty politics, maintaining his steadfast commitment to clean democracy, despite receiving little public acclaim.

He also defended the party's decision to join the government, insisting it was made in the national and public interest. The decision, adhering strictly to party regulations and devoid of personal motives, was a strategic move that Chalermchai believes can help reestablish the party's influence.

To inject fresh blood into the party, Chalermchai emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for young Democrats. He expressed confidence that an influx of youthful energy will invigorate the party and bolster its electoral success.

Regarding the entertainment complex bill, a contentious issue dividing the ruling coalition, Chalermchai stated that the party would consider its stance following internal discussions among party executives and MPs.

Commitment to the party's revival was palpable in Chalermchai's address. "Our ultimate goal is a strong and unwavering Democrat Party," he declared.

Elected as party leader in December 2023, Chalermchai succeeded Jurin Laksanawisit who stepped down after the May 2019 elections, where the party secured less than half the number of seats it previously held. The leadership election unfortunately exposed a significant rift within the party, resulting in some members breaking away following Abhisit Vejjajiva's resignation.

In a subsequent development, Janejira Rattanapian was appointed the party's new spokesperson during the annual general meeting. Furthermore, an 11-member committee was elected to vet potential candidates running under the Democrat Party banner.

In essence, Chalermchai's leadership strategy revolves around embracing change, cultivating youthful energy, and promoting clean democratic practices to revive the party's fortunes.

Thai PBS
Reuters
Nation Thailand
Bangkok Post
Chalermchai Sri-on, the Democrats Party leader, emphasized the need for ambitious transformation during his address at the party's annual general meeting, citing their precarious political situation on the brink of their 80th anniversary.
Recognizing the importance of preserving core principles and ideals alongside adaptation and progress, Chalermchai urged fellow Democrats to draw courage from their commitment to clean democracy despite changing societal sentiments.
Chalermchai expressed his belief that an influx of youthful energy into the party would invigorate it and bolster its electoral success, as part of his leadership strategy to revive the party's fortunes.
In the face of contentious policy-and-legislation issues like the entertainment complex bill, Chalermchai pledged the party's commitment to consider its stance and make decisions based on internal discussions, reflecting the party's dedication to stability and responsible politics.