Move Forward party will not join Pheu Thai in forming a new government

Move Forward party leader Chaithawat Tulathon dismissed speculation today that his party may join the Pheu Thai party in forming a new government, if Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is found guilty by the Constitutional Court of gross ethical misconduct over his appointment of convicted Phichit Chuenban as PM Office minister.

He said that the Move Forward party aims for a long-term political future and does not indulge in short-term benefit, adding that, under the current political situation, even if there is a new government, it will be unable to function effectively.

He noted, however, that the party has never been approached by Pheu Thai.

Prime Minister Srettha is scheduled to submit his rebuttal statement to the Constitutional Court on Monday, in defence of a call by about 40 senators to remove him from the office over Phichit’s appointment.

Both the Pheu Thai and Move Forward parties, along a few smaller parties, signed a deal to form a coalition government shortly after the May 14th election last year. The coalition collapsed when then Move Forward party leader Pita Limjaroenrat’s nomination as the prime minister failed to receive sufficient support in parliament.