Thai Politician Changes Allegiance Amidst Border Tensions Ahead of Elections

Post by : Mina Rahman

In anticipation of the February 8 elections, Thai lawmaker Phumin Leethiraprasert has transitioned to a different political party, aiming to convey his commitment to addressing the recent clashes at the Cambodia-Thai border.

At 62, Phumin moved away from the well-established Pheu Thai party, which has influenced Thailand's northeastern region, due to his dissatisfaction with its approach to the escalating border disputes. This conflict has escalated to a degree not seen in years, with 149 casualties and mass displacements affecting residents in border towns like Kantharalak.

Responding to demands from his electorate for a firmer stance, he is now representing the Kla Tham Party, allied with the ruling Bhumjaithai party. This decision was influenced by the political repercussions of the border instability, which led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

Communities along the border remain on edge following two rounds of violent confrontations in July and December that claimed the lives of 19 Thai citizens, necessitating large-scale evacuations. Numerous locals advocate for the establishment of a border wall along the extensive 817-kilometer boundary, although actual construction has yet to commence.

A villager from Sam Meng, Uthai, passionately stated, “We must instill fear. Our previous approach was too lenient.”

In a notable political shake-up in December, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul disbanded parliament merely days after taking office, paving the way for snap elections, perceived as a tactic to consolidate burgeoning nationalist sentiments.

The Bhumjaithai party, staunchly supportive of the military and the proposed border wall initiative, echoes sentiments from other conservative, pro-military factions. This surge in nationalism has compelled opposition parties, such as the People’s Party and Pheu Thai, to temper their narratives to avoid appearing unpatriotic.

The People’s Party, currently leading in opinion polls, is now prioritizing diplomatic approaches to mend ties with Cambodia, while Pheu Thai is actively working to affirm its commitment to safeguarding Thailand's sovereignty linked to previous relations with Cambodia’s ex-premier.

For many residents along the border, like Samrong Narasa, who suffered loss due to shelling from Cambodian forces, feelings are mixed. “We can coexist, but we don’t desire friendship with them,” she expressed, calling on the government to enhance protections for both lives and livelihoods in the area.