Party affiliation in disorder as Abhisit's potential comeback looms large
The Democratic Party is currently in the midst of a deep leadership struggle for the selection of a new leader, following the resignation of Chalermchai Sri-on due to health reasons. The party, which has traditionally held strong bases in Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla, each with six MPs, is facing internal tensions and divisions that have been exacerbated by political shifts.
The choice of a new leader will rest with three groups of 'voters' inside the party: current MPs, members of the executive board, and other party figures. Among the potential successors is Abhisit Vejjajiva, a former party leader and prime minister, who is being considered as a potential successor to restore the party's popularity and ratings.
However, not all party members are in agreement about Abhisit's return as leader under the party's existing democratic structure and ideology. Sirichok Sopha, a former Songkhla MP and close ally of Abhisit, has expressed doubts about his potential leadership. Meanwhile, some southern party heavyweights are reportedly exploring deals with capital-based parties and courting the 'blue camp' (Bhumjaithai).
The internal tensions within the Democrats have been further fuelled by differing stances on coalition politics. Divisions have emerged between Chalermchai and Dech-it, the party's current deputy leader, who has made light-hearted remarks suggesting the next leader might well be 'a son of Songkhla,' adding fuel to speculation of his potential leadership. Dech-it's message in the Democrats' MPs' Line group after Chalermchai's resignation was widely interpreted as a signal that he intends to keep the leadership firmly in his hands.
Deputy leader Chaichana Dechdecho has added to the speculation by posting a photo alongside former Democrat stalwart Korn Chatikavanij, potentially signalling dissent or a factional shift within the party. Rifts have also surfaced among key figures, particularly between Chalermchai and party secretary-general Dech-it Khaothong.
The key question is whether Abhisit will ultimately emerge as the party's true leader once again or merely a placeholder in a larger power play. Analysts suggest that overlapping signals of dissent, defections, and factionalism were the 'final straw' that forced Chalermchai's resignation.
In a surprising turn of events, Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, has declared his candidacy as a candidate for the Democratic Party leadership position before the next election, adding a global dimension to the party's leadership crisis.
Amidst this turmoil, Dech-it Khaothong has declared unwavering support for Pheu Thai and threatened to lose credibility if the Democrats align with a party tainted by scandals. In the end, it will be the party's voters who decide which faction closes the deal and seizes control. The outcome of this power struggle will shape the future direction of the Democratic Party.
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