BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Bhumjaithai and Pheu Thai parties on Thursday announced they have finalized a government coalition consisting of 11 parties, commanding a 291-seat majority in the House of Representatives.
Bhumjaithai leader Anutin Charnvirakul and Pheu Thai leader Julapun Amornvivat told reporters the coalition comprises the two major parties and nine smaller partners. Anutin confirmed the Kla Tham Party would not join the bloc, stating the current seat count is sufficient for legislative and administrative stability.
The announcement followed a meeting where Pheu Thai submitted its nominees for the Deputy House Speaker positions to Bhumjaithai.
“We now have a complete coalition,” Anutin said. “The current ratio of MPs is appropriate for managing both legislative affairs and national administration to serve the public.”
Parliament is scheduled to open on Saturday, March 14, with a session expected on March 15 to elect the House Speaker and deputies. While Anutin declined to name the nominees out of etiquette, he noted candidates must be experienced, respected, and well-versed in parliamentary regulations.
The 291-seat bloc provides the incoming government with a comfortable working majority in the 500-member lower house. (TNA)
