On Thursday 8th August, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin responded to the United States’ criticism of the Constitutional Court’s order to dissolve the Move Forward Party, dismissing the remarks as “meaningless.” Srettha emphasized Thailand’s sovereignty, stating, “We, as a sovereign nation, have our own way of developing our politics and democracy. So, what the US says about us is meaningless.” He expressed confidence that the Thai people understand the importance of maintaining the nation’s independence from external influence. However, he later suggested that “interference” might not be the right word, speculating that the U.S. could simply be offering advice.
The U.S. Department of State had previously issued a statement criticizing the court’s decision, arguing that it jeopardizes Thailand’s democratic progress and contradicts the aspirations of the Thai people for a strong democratic future. The statement urged Thailand to take steps to ensure fully inclusive political participation and to protect democratic freedoms, including the rights of association and expression.
In the aftermath of the dissolution, there have been reports of potential unrest from groups angered by the decision. Srettha indicated that he had discussed the situation with Deputy National Police Commissioner Pol Gen Kittiratt Phanphet, who reported that there had been some peaceful symbolic gatherings.
Meanwhile, the remaining MPs from the dissolved Move Forward Party are expected to transition to a new political party on Friday, according to Sirikanya Tansakun, the party’s deputy leader. Sirikanya, who is not among the 11 executives banned from politics for ten years, expressed confidence that the 142 MPs from the former party would join the new entity. She highlighted the emotional response of the party’s supporters to the court’s ruling but assured them that the party’s mission would continue.
Chief adviser Pita Limjaroenrat also addressed supporters, pledging to remain active in politics despite his ban. He reassured them of the party’s commitment to “break the cycle” of dissolutions and strengthen Thailand’s democracy. Pita, along with leader Chaithawat Tulathon, who has also been banned, criticized the court’s ruling, warning that it could set a dangerous precedent for the interpretation of the constitution.
In a separate development, both Chaithawat and deputy House speaker Padipat Santipada bid farewell to their fellow MPs in the House of Representatives. Padipat, who left the Move Forward Party last year but remained an executive during the period covered by the court’s ruling, will face a by-election to replace him in Phitsanulok Constituency 1.
Pannika Wanich, a former Future Forward MP and spokesperson for the Progressive Movement, echoed the sentiments of many supporters, asserting that the ultimate power in the country belongs to the people, not the judiciary.
This situation continues to unfold, with significant implications for Thailand’s political landscape and its future democratic processes.
