BANGKOK — Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has agreed to resume leadership of the Democrat Party following the resignation of former leader Chalermchai Sri-on, party insiders confirmed on Monday. The move aims to reunify Thailand’s oldest political party amid internal strife and declining electoral fortunes.

Former Thai PM Abhisit Vejjajiva quits Democrat party

Chalermchai stepped down last Friday, triggering the need for a new executive board election. Former Democrat MP for Trang, Sathit Wongnongtoey, stated that Abhisit’s return would “bring hope and raise the morale of party members” during a period of political challenges.

Abhisit, 61, led the Democrats from 2005 to 2019 and served as prime minister from 2008 to 2011. His resignation in 2019 followed the party’s sharp decline in popularity, culminating in a mere 53 House seats in the general election that year.

Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has agreed to return as leader of the Democrat Party, according to former Democrat MP for Trang Sathit Wongnongtoei.

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Former Songkhla MP Sirichoke Sopha praised Abhisit’s qualifications but cautioned that the political landscape had shifted significantly, with higher costs for campaigning and greater demands on leadership. He emphasized that the new leader must devote full attention to revitalizing the party.

The Democrat Party, founded in 1946, has struggled to redefine its role in contemporary Thai politics, particularly after the rise of newer parties and ongoing constitutional changes. Abhisit’s return is seen as an attempt to stabilize the party and leverage his experience ahead of future elections.

Abhisit may return as leader of the Democrat Party

The party is expected to hold an executive board meeting soon to formalize leadership transitions and strategize for upcoming local and national polls.

-Thailand News (TN)