Thailand’s youngest and most progressive political party, Move Forward, held a victorious rally beside Bangkok’s iconic Democracy Monument to celebrate its remarkable success in the recent election. The monument, situated in the heart of the historic royal quarter, has long symbolized the country’s yearning for democracy and the complex relationship between democratic aspirations and the revered monarchy.
Move Forward has taken up the cause of addressing this delicate relationship, a topic previously considered taboo. One of its key objectives is to amend the lese majeste or 112 law, which prohibits insulting the monarchy. This law has been used to charge and imprison numerous young protesters who frequently gathered at Democracy Monument.
During the celebration, trucks adorned in the party’s signature orange color encircled the monument, while party leaders waved at enthusiastic supporters donning orange ribbons in their hair and on their wrists. The atmosphere was one of excitement and happiness, as loyal followers expressed their anticipation for this momentous occasion.
The party’s previous incarnation, Future Forward, had also garnered significant support in the 2019 election among passionate young voters. However, it was dissolved by Thailand’s Constitutional Court, resulting in the banning of several of its Members of Parliament from politics. Nevertheless, Move Forward has made a powerful comeback, attracting an even broader range of supporters.
Although Move Forward falls short of a parliamentary majority with its estimated 151 seats, its unexpectedly strong performance has positioned it as the leading party. Consequently, it is widely regarded as having received a popular mandate for its reform agenda. The party has now formed a coalition government with Pheu Thai, the second-largest opposition party, and secured the backing of four smaller opposition parties, giving them a clear majority and a mandate to govern.
Move Forward’s leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, expressed his readiness to be the prime minister for all citizens, regardless of agreement or disagreement. However, this coalition would still face the challenge of outvoting opponents in the 250-seat unelected senate, which, according to the military-drafted constitution, is permitted to participate in the selection of the next prime minister. As the senators were appointed by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, they are expected to oppose a Move Forward-led administration, potentially leading to a prolonged political stalemate.
Nonetheless, Move Forward appears willing to take the risk, boldly challenging the much-criticized senate to block their government formation. Mr. Pita emphasized that attempting to nullify the election result or establish a minority government would come at a substantial cost, given the consensus that emerged from the election. The people of Thailand, he argued, would not allow such actions to undermine their collective voice.
While uncertainties remain, including the potential intervention of institutions such as the Election Commission or the Constitutional Court, Move Forward is actively preparing for government. If allowed to assume office, Thailand would witness the youngest and most progressive government in its history. This new administration would symbolize a significant milestone in the country’s pursuit of democratic reforms and could potentially bring about positive change for the Thai people.