Democrat Party affirms continued coalition participation, urges review of ties with Cambodia

Democrat Party confirms it will stay in the government but calls for a review of relations with Cambodia to protect Thailand's sovereignty and public trust.

The Democrat Party on Friday issued a statement following a meeting of its executive committee, which discussed the current political situation. The meeting took place at 5:00 pm on Thursday (June 19).

The statement said the Democrat Party’s executive committee reached a unanimous agreement, which included the following points:

1. The Democrat Party confirmed its decision to remain a coalition partner in the government to continue managing the country's affairs and addressing the ongoing issues the nation faces.

2. The Democrat Party called on the government to reconsider its stance and approach to the Thai-Cambodian relations seriously, to ensure the protection of Thailand’s sovereignty, dignity, and national interests. The party emphasised the need to restore public confidence by acting transparently and swiftly.

3. The Democrat Party acknowledged the public’s concerns regarding the current situation, stressing that the government must listen to diverse opinions and quickly create a proper understanding among the people, encouraging national unity to overcome the ongoing crises.

4. The Democrat Party reaffirmed its commitment to the democratic system, with the King as head of state, and made clear that it does not support any political changes outside the democratic framework and constitutional provisions.

The press further reported that after the executive committee meeting on Thursday, the committee voted 19 to 7, agreeing that the Democrat Party would continue its participation in the government.

The party also authorised its leader, Chalermchai Sri-on, who also serves as Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, to negotiate with the government’s leaders before issuing the statement.

However, reports indicate that at least three deputy leaders of the party mentioned during the meeting that they might reconsider their roles within the party moving forward, given the current situation.

(2025/06/20-00:00)