PM says formation of coalition government is complete, no Kla Tham party

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said today that the formation of the coalition government, comprising Bhumjaithai, Pheu Thai and 13 minor parties, which collectively command 291 votes in the House of Representatives, is complete.

He explained that he decided to exclude the Kla Tham party from the coalition with a heavy heart, but for “irresistible” reasons, adding that he did not like the feeling of driving the party into the opposition camp.

“We have duties to perform in different roles. Politics has always been this way,” said Anutin solemnly.

The prime minister joined key figures from the Pheu Thai party, including party leader Julapun Amornvivat, in a press conference today after the Pheu Thai party formally nominated Lertsak Pattanachaikul for the post of second deputy House speaker.

He said that the two parties will discuss the timeline for the formation of the government later, adding that it is not yet appropriate to discuss this with the media.

Asked about the opposition’s plan to grill him when the House meets to elect the prime minister, Anutin said he is ready to respond to all questions raised by opposition MPs.

The opposition camp now comprises the People’s, Kla Tham, Democrat and some smaller parties.