Thailand's Political Landscape and the Upcoming Election

Overview

• Thailand's Election Commission recommends dissolution of Thai Raksa Chart Party for nominating a princess for prime minister.
• The election on March 24, 2019, will be the first since the military coup in 2014.
• Key issues surrounding democracy and political maneuvering post-coup discussed.

Thai Raksa Chart Party and Princess Nomination

• The party aimed to innovate political landscape by nominating Princess Ubonrat.
• The nomination was deemed inappropriate by the palace, violating royal traditions.
• Dissolution would prevent party members from participating in politics for 10 years.
• This would be the third dissolution of a party linked to former PM Thaksin Shinawatra.
• Concerns raised about the fairness of the upcoming elections.

Current Political Climate

• The military has ruled Thailand since the 2014 coup, promising elections that were delayed for years.
• A new constitution perceived to favor military power remains in place.
• Parties aligned with Thaksin represent the primary challenge to the military.
• Dissolution of the Thai Raksa Chart Party could weaken chances for opposition parties in the election.

Discussion Points from Guests

Sean Bumpakong

• The gamble of nominating a princess viewed differently across political ideologies.
• The Royal Family traditionally keeps out of politics; this move was risky.
• The Thai electorate may have become more resigned to the political status quo.

David Strekfus

• Nomination of the princess could have bridged grassroots interests with the monarchy.
• The political system is seen as anti-democratic due to military influence.
• Concerns persist that elections may not reflect genuine public will.

Krein Sack Chaiwa Rongak

• Dissolution impacts the democratic landscape but may not drastically affect election outcomes.
• The military and their supported parties have structural advantages in the upcoming election.
• There is skepticism about whether the elections will lead to genuine democratic representation.

Key Themes

• Democracy vs. Military Rule: The ongoing struggle between pro-democracy parties and the military establishment.
• Public Sentiment: The mood among voters is complex; many may feel disillusioned yet hopeful for change.
• Election Integrity: The potential rigging of the election process raises questions about the validity of future political representation.

Conclusion

• The future of democracy in Thailand is uncertain as the election approaches, especially with the looming dissolution of the Thai Raksa Chart Party.
• The dynamics between the military, monarchy, and pro-democracy forces continue to shape the political landscape.