Coalition alliance open to all parties, including Democrats - Thaksin

Pheu Thai's de facto leader Thaksin Shinawatra said today that his party has not ruled out the possibility of more parties joining the governing coalition, including the Democrats.

Thaksin also said that, if the Palang Pracharath party, which is now suffering an internal rift, is to join the new government, the two factions must heal their schism and, quoting a well-known song, “If you want to come, you must come as a whole.”

The party’s two factions are led by party secretary-general Thammanat Prompao and party leader General Prawit Wongsuwan. Given a choice of one of these two factions, Thaksin said the one which has been most dedicated to the previous administration would be more suitable, apparently referring to the Thammanat faction.

He also said that it is for the Pheu Thai party to decide who should be in the cabinet, adding that it is not his business to intervene.

The former prime minister also denied that he had spoken with General Prawit, as reported by the media.

Asked about the possibility of the Democrat party being invited to join the coalition, Thaksin said that it is normal for every government to seek stability, which helps to enhance confidence in the country, adding “It is possible.”

Regarding the tough screening of potential ministers, Thaksin said that those who are at risk of not being qualified should withdraw.