Lieutenant Colonel Thammanat flies to Japan to oversee Asian Games athletes amid rumors of joining the government after leaving the opposition. Meanwhile, Piyawat insists Kla Tham prioritizes the people's hardships and urges avoiding excessive political gamesmanship.
On 22 Sep 2026 GMT+7, reporters noted that following Prit Wacharasindhu, list MP and deputy leader of the Prachachon Party, who also chairs the opposition whip, announcing that the Kla Tham party would not be part of the opposition whip, rumors emerged that Kla Tham might join the government coalition with the Bhumjaithai Party. Regarding Lieutenant Colonel Thammanat Phromphao, MP for Phayao and Kla Tham leader, party staff informed reporters via the party's media group chat that he is currently in Japan as president of the Water Sports Association of Thailand, overseeing Thai athletes competing in the 20th Asian Games held there.
Piyawat declares Kla Tham puts the people's hardships first.
Piyawat Kittithanesaworn, MP for Nakhon Nayok and member of the opposition whip representing Kla Tham, expressed the party’s work stance amid discussions about its role in the opposition. He affirmed that the party has consistently collaborated with opposition parties but emphasizes prioritizing the public's interests.
Piyawat stated that Kla Tham opposes issues with dignity and reason. The party has cooperated with the opposition throughout and holds a firm stance focused on addressing citizens’ difficulties.
Specifically regarding the budget bill deliberation, Piyawat questioned the potential consequences if the budget fails, asking, “How will the people live if the budget is rejected? Is the current situation not already bad enough?” He stressed that MPs’ roles should not be judged by party alignment or influence but by how much they consider the people’s welfare.
“Which side we are on is irrelevant; what matters is how much we think about the people. We will not support stubborn opposition that holds the public hostage. Kla Tham definitely rejects that,” he said.
Piyawat concluded by saying, “Please don’t play political games excessively.”
