Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, leader of the People’s Party, declared his desire to see peace talks move forward, emphasizing that ensuring public peace and safety is paramount. He views the dissolution of the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) as the ultimate outcome but acknowledges the necessity of a transitional period. He pointed out that the military should not be involved in politics.
At 10:50 a.m. on 18 July 2026 in Narathiwat Province, Nattapong Ruangpanyawut, party-list MP and leader of the People’s Party as opposition leader in the House of Representatives, spoke about the upcoming peace talks for the southern border provinces, which had been stalled for two years. He said he has been following the progress closely and stressed that the immediate priority is maintaining public order and the safety of citizens. Ultimately, all conflicts must be resolved at the negotiation table.
Nattapong added that he supports advancing the process, including a 40-day pilot ceasefire, and hopes to see such initiatives proceed. He does not want the Thai government side to rely solely on military force but prefers both parties to move forward together.
When asked about proposals to dissolve the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), Nattapong said that the People’s Party, formerly Future Forward and Move Forward parties, have consistently presented a vision for society’s future. This includes military reform, breaking monopolies, and decentralization, all of which relate to resolving issues in the three southern border provinces.
He reiterated that solutions for the three southern provinces must follow standard frameworks. Regarding the proposal to dissolve ISOC, it connects to the long-held view that the military should focus on national defense. During the transitional period, he understands that some agencies’ roles remain necessary, but a clear transition phase is needed. The ultimate goal is to ensure security agencies do not interfere in politics, and that the military carries out its proper duties. This is the vision for the end state.
Nattapong further said that currently, they have engaged in dialogue with agencies like ISOC and others. He believes they have clearly expressed their intentions, emphasizing security and safety of local citizens as the priority. He also mentioned that in meetings, they have stressed readiness to support security agencies with equipment or mechanisms if needed, and that agencies often emphasize the importance of special legal powers, which they do not oppose if used fairly and correctly.
He also addressed concerns about some special legal powers causing public suspicion. He said that while certain special laws may be necessary in specific situations, officials must be accountable and should not misuse these legal provisions for wrongful purposes.
When asked if there are worries about conflicts between political factions and security agencies, Nattapong said that they share the same goal of peace in the region so citizens can live normal lives. He does not see it as a conflict but believes that this period requires many forums for discussion to build mutual understanding.