Bangkok:A photo depicting a group dining at an Indian restaurant is not indicative of a secret deal, according to Associate Professor Wanwichit Boonproong from the Faculty of Political Science at Rangsit University. He believes that the image serves as a signal to the Pheu Thai Party to prevent any defections.
According to Thai News Agency, the photograph features Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Chada Thaiseth, a key figure in the Bhumjaithai Party, and Captain Thamanat Promphao, leader of the Kla Tham Party. Wanwichit interprets the public release of these photos as a strategic move to prevent the meeting from being perceived as secretive, while also offering various interpretations of the parties' political strategies. This, in turn, provides insight into the Pheu Thai Party's political maneuvers.
Wanwichit further noted that the gathering could simply be a casual meal among acquaintances or could potentially signal the Kla Tham Party's position on the upcoming no-confidence debate. He speculated that the party might back the government or abstain, which would equate to support. Alternatively, the Kla Tham Party might have been signaled about future opportunities to join the government. If the Pheu Thai Party uses the no-confidence vote as a bargaining tool, the Kla Tham Party could become an influential player in the government’s strategy.
Wanwichit also pointed out that the release of the images might be intended to alert coalition government parties about ongoing developments and to diminish suspicions about the secrecy of the negotiations. Mr. Chada Thaiseth, a former Deputy Minister of Interior, was also present at the dinner.
"Pheu Thai has already made some moves before the debate, including requesting a budget and amnesty for Thaksin's cases. They probably intend to use the debate as leverage. However, the Kla Tham Party has positioned itself as supporting the blue faction. Given this, I believe Pheu Thai will find it difficult to make any moves and will have to play along for now," Wanwichit concluded.