Suwat Lipthapallop assesses that Thai politics is entering an era dominated by three major parties, further disadvantaging smaller parties. He announced that the Chat Phatthana Party will take a hiatus and not field candidates in the 2026 election, opening the way for former MPs to change affiliations at their discretion.
At 14:00 on 18 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Suwat Lipthapallop, chairman of the Chat Phatthana Party, chaired a meeting of the party's executive committee, attended by Teaw Lipthapallop, party leader; Watcharapol Tomornsak, deputy leader; Aran Panthumjinda, former party-list MP; Wuttipong Thonglao, former Prachinburi MP of Chat Phatthana; and spokesperson Yaowapha Burapolchay. The meeting took place at No. 333 Ratchawithi Road, Suan Chitlada Subdistrict, Dusit District, Bangkok, to analyze and summarize the political situation.
Later, at 15:20, 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 1988, I have been involved in politics and seen many elections, all previously contests between two major parties. This upcoming election is the first fought among three major parties. I assess this election will be fierce, intense, and highly competitive, with many MPs switching parties, reflecting the reality of a three-pole political contest for state power.
2. The constitutional electoral system increasingly disadvantages smaller parties.
3. The sudden dissolution of the House has limited the timeframe for preparing primary votes.
4. Given external factors, this election must result in a stable government and strong enough politics to build confidence in the political system. The new government will strengthen politics and enhance the quality and strength of major parties.
"Therefore, the Chat Phatthana Party will not field candidates in this election term. We choose to step back for now, but the party remains intact. Former MPs and party leaders may decide their affiliations at their discretion."
When asked about his personal decision, Suwat said he will remain party chairman, support 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 junior members. Asked about rumors of working with the Pheu Thai Party, Suwat replied it is not a party decision but a personal choice for each individual. For example, former Nakhon Sawan MP Prasat Tanprasert has chosen to join the Bhumjaithai Party. Suwat believes party members in Nakhon Ratchasima and Prachinburi provinces are capable and respected by their local communities.
Regarding which party is favored between Pheu Thai and Bhumjaithai, Suwat stated this is the first time three major parties are neck and neck. He assesses all three will have around 100 seats each, competing to form a stable government to solve the people's problems.
Meanwhile, Teaw said he and former MPs will discuss which party groups to join. Although he is not currently an MP, he has worked in the area for many years and everyone is ready to run for election. Former MP Wuttipong (also known as MP Jae) said he has not decided which party to join yet, despite reports that the Kla Party has approached him. He feels the Chat Phatthana Party gave him opportunities when he was struggling, so any decision to switch parties will require discussion and agreement among them.