Last year, Move Forward, a progressive political party in Thailand, faced strong opposition from influential rivals that prevented it from forming a government. However, the party remains a significant political force and a threat to the status quo, advocating for military reform and dismantling big business monopolies. These policies have put Move Forward in conflict with powerful groups at the center of a long-standing crisis marked by coups, the removal of prime ministers, dissolution of parties, and street protests.
Following a court decision that led to the disbandment of Move Forward, some of its supporters called for protests. At the party’s headquarters, loyalists expressed disappointment and disbelief at the ruling. One supporter, Sirinapa Veillet, described the situation as hitting “rock bottom” and feeling like they have no support from Thailand’s democratic institutions. Move Forward’s disbandment comes at a crucial moment in Thai politics as cracks also appear in the uneasy truce between the royalist establishment and the populist ruling party, Pheu Thai.
Pheu Thai has been a frequent target of coups and judicial interventions in Thailand’s political history. The Constitutional Court is set to decide whether to dismiss Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin over his appointment of a lawyer with a criminal record to the cabinet. Srettha denies any wrongdoing, but his case has added to the political uncertainty and financial market volatility in Thailand. If Srettha is removed, a new premier would need to be voted on by parliament, potentially leading to a shakeup in the governing alliance and realignment of cabinet and policies.
The disbandment of Move Forward and the potential removal of Prime Minister Srettha have increased political tensions in Thailand. The ruling party, Pheu Thai, and its coalition partners may face challenges in maintaining their alliance if a new premier needs to be appointed. These developments could lead to further political upheaval, protests, and shifts in government policies. The ongoing crisis in Thailand, marked by a history of coups and street protests, shows no signs of abating as political factions and powerful groups continue to vie for control and influence.
The disbandment of Move Forward has left many supporters feeling disillusioned and defeated, as they see the democratic institutions in Thailand failing to support their progressive agenda. The party’s commitment to military reform and economic reform has put it at odds with entrenched interests and powerful groups that have long dominated Thai politics. As the country grapples with ongoing political uncertainty and potential leadership changes, the fate of progressive movements like Move Forward remains uncertain. The future of Thailand’s democracy and political landscape hangs in the balance as rival factions and powerful interests continue to vie for control.
