Thai Politician Changes Party Amid Tensions Over Border Skirmishes

Thai politician Phumin Leethiraprasert has transitioned to a new political party as he gears up for the elections on February 8, with a focus on addressing the escalating border tensions with Cambodia.

At 62, Phumin has departed from the prominent Pheu Thai party, which has historically dominated Thailand's northeastern regions, expressing dissatisfaction with their approach to the ongoing border crisis. This conflict has claimed 149 lives and left many residents displaced in areas like Kantharalak.

Responding to his constituents' strong demand for a firmer approach, Phumin will now campaign under the Kla Tham Party, which allies with the ruling Bhumjaithai party. This move follows significant political repercussions from the border crisis, including the ousting of former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

The situation remains tense for border communities after violent clashes in July and December resulted in the deaths of 19 Thai nationals and forced large-scale evacuations. Many locals advocate for the construction of a border wall along the 817-kilometer boundary, though work has not yet commenced.

“We need to instill fear; our previous approach was too gentle,” commented Uthai, a resident from Sam Meng close to the border.

In December, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul disbanded parliament after under 100 days in office, paving the way for anticipated snap elections, perceived as an attempt to capitalize on growing nationalist sentiments.

Anutin's Bhumjaithai party has firmly endorsed both the military and the proposed border wall initiative, a stance echoed by other conservative parties. This surge in nationalism has forced opposition parties, including the People’s Party and Pheu Thai, to reconsider their positions and avoid any perception of unpatriotism.

Currently leading in opinion polls, the People’s Party has shifted its focus towards diplomatic maneuvers to mend relations with Cambodia, while Pheu Thai strives to demonstrate its dedication to safeguarding Thailand’s sovereignty despite historical affiliations with Cambodia’s ex-premier.

Samrong Narasa, a victim of the Cambodian attacks who lost her home, exemplifies the mixed emotions of many locals. “We can coexist, but we don’t wish to be friends,” she stated, calling on the government to enhance protective measures for the community.