Abhisit led the Democrat Party MPs to report their status, expressing excitement about returning to parliament once again and readiness to work in the legislative branch. He urged the speedy formation of a full-authority government to restore confidence in the economy and energy sectors, while revealing that no invitation to join the government has been received yet. Tags: [Democrat Party, parliamentary return, government formation, economic confidence, energy sector]
At 09:30 on 6 March 2026, Mr. Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democrat Party, led Democrat MPs from both party-list and constituency seats to report to the Secretariat of the House of Representatives. The party-list MPs reporting today included Mr. Korn Chatikavanij, Mrs. Kandej Liaopairoj, Mr. Chaiwut Bannawat, Mr. Amphon Pinasah, Mr. Satit Wongnongtoey, Mr. Sakolthee Pattiyakul, Mrs. Radklao Intawong Suwankiri, Mr. Isra Suntharawat, and Mr. Juree Numkaew, a constituency MP from Songkhla Province’s 2nd district. Yesterday, Mr. Chaiyachana Detdecho reported along with constituency MPs from Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.Tags: [Democrat Party, MPs, reporting, parliament, Thai politics]
After reporting, Mr. Chaiyachana took Mr. Abhisit and the group on a tour of the parliament building to familiarize them with the new parliament venue, as Mr. Abhisit has never worked in the new building since resigning as party leader. The first stop was the media briefing room, followed by the front entrance drop-off point, the Suriyan room used for MPs’ meetings, and the committee offices. Throughout the tour, Mr. Abhisit was visibly impressed, occasionally commenting to Mrs. Kandej on the grandeur of the parliament.Tags: [parliament building, tour, Democrat Party, Abhisit Vejjajiva, new parliament]
Reporters teased Mr. Chaiyachana about why he did not report alongside the others today. He replied, “Today I have to lead the tour.” Mr. Abhisit added, “Mr. Chaiyachana is practicing the walk, afraid he might not perform well today.”Tags: [Democrat Party, parliament, reporting, politics, humor]
During the parliament tour, at some points the group discussed results from the English Premier League. Mr. Abhisit expressed support for Newcastle United, which had recently beaten Manchester United 2-1, despite Newcastle having only 10 players on the field.Tags: [football, Premier League, Newcastle United, Manchester United, Abhisit Vejjajiva]
Mr. Abhisit teased Manchester United fans, saying, “Even with only 10 players, they still won. Or do they need to be down to 9 players before Manchester United can win?” This brought smiles to the attending journalists.Tags: [football banter, Premier League, Manchester United, Newcastle United, media]
After touring the parliament building, Mr. Abhisit said he brought the newcomers to the parliament because they have never worked here before and needed to see where their workplaces are located. Reflecting on his first return after a long absence, he admitted that last year he did not expect to come back under such circumstances. However, today he is fully committed, considering this work has been his lifelong passion and the most enjoyable part of politics is working in parliament.Tags: [Abhisit Vejjajiva, parliament work, Democrat Party, politics, commitment]
Mr. Abhisit emphasized that the Democrat Party has not yet received an invitation to join the government and is waiting to hear from the Prime Minister as various processes conclude. The party is preparing for legislative work, whether in opposition or government, with a key focus on pushing important laws promised during the campaign. He urged a swift government formation process because of current global challenges; a prompt establishment of government, policy announcement, and administration are needed to address impacts. Although the caretaker government can manage, public confidence remains low, especially regarding energy and commodity prices. A full-authority government could better restore confidence. He also noted that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently performing well without issues.Tags: [government formation, Democrat Party, legislative work, economic confidence, energy prices, foreign affairs]
When asked if the Democrat Party’s hesitation to declare whether they will be in opposition or government relates to good relations with the Bhumjaithai Party, Mr. Abhisit laughed and replied it is a matter of political etiquette. There is no need to reject anything outright. Bhumjaithai Party is well aware that the Democrat Party’s position on joining the government depends on conditions promised to the public.Tags: [Democrat Party, Bhumjaithai Party, political relations, government participation, etiquette]
Supporters of the Democrat Party are divided between wanting the party to join the government or remain in opposition to check the government and prepare for a strong comeback in the next election. Mr. Abhisit said diversity of opinion is natural and part of the Democrat Party’s character. MPs listen to all sides. The party has clear procedures in its rules, and when decisions must be made, the best approach is through the executive committee and MPs’ consensus.Tags: [Democrat Party, internal views, opposition, government, party procedures]
Regarding how smooth politics will be moving forward amid election scrutiny, Mr. Abhisit said he wants the government to proceed with solving problems. However, the last election had many irregularities that must be addressed and proper standards established to prevent future issues. Both matters must be handled concurrently through proper processes. When asked about rumors that Mr. Sophon Sarum is nominated as House Speaker and if he is qualified, Mr. Abhisit said it is customary for the forming party to propose a candidate, and they will do their part in the voting.Tags: [election scrutiny, government stability, House Speaker, Democrat Party, political process]
When asked if the Democrat Party’s vote for the House Speaker implies support for the Bhumjaithai Party’s Prime Minister candidate, Mr. Abhisit said the two are unrelated. Decisions on voting in parliament are matters for the MPs’ meetings to discuss and decide.Tags: [Democrat Party, House Speaker vote, Prime Minister, parliamentary decisions]
After Mr. Abhisit and his group left parliament, Mr. Chuan Leekpai, a party-list MP, came to report later due to prior commitments and was unable to come with the others.Tags: [Democrat Party, Chuan Leekpai, parliament, reporting]