Suwat assesses that politics is entering an era dominated by three major parties, putting smaller parties at a disadvantage. He declared that Chat Phatthana Party will take a hiatus and will not field candidates in the 2026 election, allowing former MPs to change affiliations at their discretion.
At 14:00 on 18 December 2025 GMT+7, Mr. Suwat Lipatphallop, leader of Chat Phatthana Party, chaired an executive committee meeting attended by key members such as Mr. Thewan Lipatphallop, party leader, Mr. Watcharapol Tomornsak, deputy party leader, former party-list MP Mr. Aran Panthumjinda, former Prachinburi MP Mr. Wuttipong Thonglao, and party spokesperson Ms. Yaowapha Burapolchai. The meeting was held at house number 333 Rajvithi Road, Suan Chitlada subdistrict, Dusit district, Bangkok, to analyze and summarize the political situation.
At 15:20, Mr. Suwat revealed that the meeting discussed the political situation following the dissolution of the House of Representatives, reaching the following conclusions:
1. The political situation is intense. Since entering politics in 1988, he has seen many elections, traditionally a contest between two major parties. This will be the first election contested by three major parties, making the competition fiercer, with many MPs switching parties. This reflects the reality of a three-party system competing for state power.
2. Under the constitutional electoral system, smaller parties are increasingly disadvantaged.
3. The sudden dissolution of the House has limited the timeframe for preparing primary votes.
4. Given external factors, this election must produce a stable government and strong politics to build confidence in the political system. The new government will strengthen politics, improve quality, and reinforce the major party system.
"Therefore, Chat Phatthana Party will not field candidates in this election cycle. This term, we will pass. However, the party remains intact. Former MPs and party leaders may decide their paths at their discretion."
When asked about his personal decision, Mr. Suwat said he will remain party chairman, assist local politics in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, and stay with the party as instructed by former party leader General Chatichan Chunhawan. He is ready to support younger members. Asked about rumors of collaborating with Pheu Thai Party, he responded that such decisions are personal, not party consensus. For example, former Nakhon Sawan MP Prasat Tanprasert chose to join Bhumjaithai Party. He believes party members in Nakhon Ratchasima and Prachinburi are capable and respected by local people.
Regarding which party has an advantage between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, Mr. Suwat said this is the first time the three major parties are neck-and-neck. He estimates all three parties have around 100 seats each, competing to form a stable government to solve people’s problems.
Meanwhile, Mr. Thewan said he and former party MPs will discuss which party to join as a group. Although he is not currently an MP, he has worked in the area for many years and everyone is ready to run. Former MP Wuttipong, known as MP Jae, said he has not decided which party to join yet, despite reports that Kla Party has contacted him. He feels grateful to Chat Phatthana for giving him opportunities during difficult times. Therefore, with the party not fielding candidates, any party transfer will be decided after consultation and mutual agreement.