Chaos at the Thai Cabinet—Who Is Vanishing?
Last Tuesday (Feb. 8), Prime Minister Prayuth Chan‑ocha faced a dead‑pan boycott at his cabinet meeting: seven ministers from the Bhumjaithai Party, the coalition’s second‑largest member, simply didn’t turn up. A full‑blown cafeteria ghost‑town, if you will.
Why the Absence? The Green Line Drama
They had a solid gripe: the government’s plan to stretch BTS Group Holdings’ Green Line concession by another 30 years.
- Those in support worry the extension will keep fare hikes out of control.
- Opposition talks a big wind‑talker—road‑charge extensions are, after all, a road to more taxes.
Complicating matters, the extended proposal is cozy with another partner in the same coalition. So the pause is not just a slip; it’s a clear political check‑mate.
Prayuth’s Reaction? He’s Remained Quiet
He declined to speak to reporters immediately after the meeting—just like a secret agent shaking off the lights. The delays add confusion for a coalition already in a state of mild chaos, especially with the final year of Prayuth’s term looming ahead.
Inside the Coalition: Power Plays Grew Out of Control
According to political scientist Titipol Phakdeewanich of Ubon Ratchathani University, factions within the coalition are publicly negotiating power—and each is betting huge as elections approach.
- Last month Palang Pracharat (the Premier’s own party) tossed out a faction that owned 21 seats, citing their disunity lawsuits.
- This week’s Cabinet meeting’s boycott shows the same rift widening.
Legislative Gridlock: Quorum Breakdowns
It’s not just shows; lawmakers are failing to get enough hands in quorum space (4 sessions canceled in 2023, 8 in 2021, and only 1 in 2020). Panic? Or new flex‑cycle tactics? It remains to be seen.
What Now? The Decision
In response, cabinet members decided to send the rail proposal back to the Interior Ministry for consultation with agencies opposed to it. The story may be evolving, but one thing’s clear: the Thai political arena is turning into a well‑structured stage of drama, with plenty of missed cues—count the bold moves.
