The Bhumjaithai Party’s campaign to woo small parties to its side continued on Monday with the addition of two more small parties to the new government coalition.
Bhumjaithai announced that the Pheu Chart Thai and Mitimai parties would bring a total of three MPs-elect to its side, at a media briefing attended by both parties.
The latest move brings the total support for Bhumjaithai to about 278 votes so far from 10 parties. The coalition needs a minimum of 251.
278 votes for Anutin:
- Bhumjaithai 193
- Pheu Thai 74
- 8 small parties 11
Bhumjaithai spokeswoman Nan Boontida Somchai said Pheu Chart Thai and Mitimai have promised to support Anutin Charnvirakul for prime minister when parliament meets to vote for a new government leader in the wake of the Feb 8 general election.
Attention is now shifting to the Klatham Party and whether it will remain in alliance with Bhumjaithai in forming the new administration. They are partners in the outgoing Bhumjaithai government.
Bhumjaithai secretary-general Chaichanok Chidchob said Klatham had not made any approach to demonstrate its intention to join the new administration.
There is speculation that Bhumjaithai is putting pressure on Klatham to give up the Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministry portfolio.
Klatham chief adviser Thamanat Prompow guided the party to winning a suprising 58 seats at the polls, becoming the fourth largest party - after Bhumjaithai, People’s Party and Pheu Thai.
