“Wanwichit” sees a possible reconciliation between the Pheu Thai Party and the People's Party, believing that their animosity has been resolved. He points out that if foreign policy prioritizes national interests, there's no need to worry.

Today (Jan 28) 12:00 PM at Ramkhamhaeng University, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanwichit Boonproong, a lecturer in the Faculty of Political Science at Rangsit University and advisor to the Minister of Defense, was interviewed regarding the possibility of the People's Party cooperating with the Pheu Thai Party, given the ease of dialogue between Mr. Suriya Jungrungruangkit and Mr. Thanathorn Jungrungruangkit. He stated that concerns about the cancellation of the February 8th election due to security concerns and fears of Cambodia instigating conflict are merely excuses. In reality, these are concerns raised by conservative factions. Looking at the 2023 election results, the Move Forward Party and the Pheu Thai Party combined to secure 292 seats, more than half the total, without needing the votes of the Senate.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanwichit further stated that while the 2026 election, which was said to be marked by animosity, has now resolved itself, the Pheu Thai party at that time frustrated the Move Forward party by breaking its MOU to join forces with the "uncle" party (referring to a party led by Thaksin Shinawatra). Similarly, the People's Party abruptly broke its deal with Pheu Thai to support Mr. Anutin. Therefore, they've pushed and pulled at each other, but it's highly possible, if the election results are to be taken lightly, that both parties could join forces if they win more than half the seats. However, in politics, things that have never happened before can happen; a reconciliation is possible. But if they do join forces, there must be other challenging factors, such as the placement of key ministerial positions. In this situation, Pheu Thai must think carefully, considering whether Mr. Thaksin Shinawatra is trying to distance himself, becoming an unofficial political hostage. Are there other unseen forces pressuring them? These are questions that need to be asked.

Regarding foreign policy, the People's Party and Pheu Thai tend to align more with the United States, while the Bhumjaithai Party has a more neutral policy. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanwichit said that the most crucial factor in foreign policy is the lingering feelings of the people, who are still clinging to past ties and unable to shake off their old beliefs. Regarding Thai-Cambodian relations, if both parties engage in actions that create an atmosphere of distrust, that's worrying. If both parties prioritize national security policies and prioritize national interests, there shouldn't be much to worry about. However, they will face more challenges from public suspicion. Bhumjaithai has already passed the test of working with the military, but we must acknowledge that politics and relations with neighboring countries require careful consideration. As long as our neighbors perceive us as a threat, excessive compromise at the expense of national interests is also concerning. Therefore, Pheu Thai and the People's Party must understand that the people don't crave war; war is bad. However, national interests and the military's efforts to protect the territory must always be valued.

As for the possibility of a coalition between the People's Party and Bhumjaithai, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanwichit stated that it depends on the conditions. The People's Party has already made its word; if Mr. Anutin's party comes in first, they won't name themselves as prime minister. However, they must adhere to the election results first. But at that point, their word will be self-inflicted, which is worrying.

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