BANGKOK — Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul announced on Wednesday that he is moving forward with forming a new minority coalition government, despite acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai’s push to dissolve the House of Representatives. The political showdown has plunged Thailand into a fresh period of uncertainty.

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Anutin confirmed that he and representatives from several breakaway factions signed an agreement to establish a coalition committed to dissolving the House within four months after presenting its policy statement to Parliament. The coalition—comprising defectors from Palang Pracharath, United Thai Nation, Thai Srang Thai, and Democrat parties, alongside the Kla Tham Party as its second-largest member—will hold only 146 seats, leaving it short of a majority.

The People’s Party, with 143 MPs, will support Anutin’s nomination for prime minister but will not join the government, opting instead to remain in opposition. The coalition agreement also mandates a national referendum on comprehensive constitutional amendments.

Despite the opposition People’s Party voting to support Bhumjaithai's candidate for prime minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, the Pheu Thai Party declared it would proceed with its move for a House dissolution.

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Anutin’s announcement came less than an hour after acting PM Phumtham revealed he had sought royal consent to dissolve the House, citing a “distorted” democratic system and warning that a minority government would lack stability and public confidence. “It’s in the country’s interest to return power to the people,” Phumtham stated, emphasizing his request submitted to His Majesty the King on Tuesday night.

The Constitution grants the King sole authority to dissolve the House. If approved, a snap election would follow, upending Anutin’s coalition efforts. The Bhumjaithai leader remains undeterred, arguing that his government would prioritize national stability and constitutional reform.

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The escalating rivalry between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, with the People’s Party as kingmaker, highlights the fragility of Thailand’s political landscape. Analysts warn that both paths—a minority government or a snap election—carry risks of prolonged instability and policy paralysis.

-Thailand News (TN)