A deep dive into the list of nine famous former MPs who made history by voting against their party's consensus, earning the label "snakes," now set to step into the 2026 election battle under new party colors. Who will survive or fall? Watch closely the phenomenon of the "Kla Tham Party," their new powerful home base in politics.
The saying "In Thai politics, there are no permanent friends or enemies" still holds true as signals for the 2026 election begin to surface. What attracts attention this time is not just policy issues but the "individuals" themselves. Especially the group of politicians who once caused shockwaves by voting against their original party's consensus before switching sides.
Thairath’s special reporting team takes a closer look at nine names, "former snake MPs" preparing to test the public’s trust once again, divided into four groups.
1. The veterans: "legendary snakes" risking it all again after previous defeat.
One name to remember is "Srinuan Bunlue." A former rising star of Future Forward who became one of the first orange-colored 'snakes,' she moved to Bhumjaithai Party before the 2023 election and paid a heavy price when she failed, lagging far behind. Now, in the Chiang Mai constituency, she returns wearing Bhumjaithai's colors again. Will this be a comeback or a repeat of past wounds? It remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, "Kharom Phonphornklang," a former outspoken Move Forward MP who switched sides some time ago, had moved to Bhumjaithai and lost once but still got a chance as deputy government spokesperson. This time, he clearly moves to his third party, Palang Pracharath, to contest in Roi Et province, aiming to leverage his personal track record against his former party’s wave.
2. "Big names" shaking the political scene: Is this the end for the riverside house legend?
The biggest shock comes from "Police Lieutenant Colonel Chalerm Yubamrung," the seasoned 'Inspector Liem' who voted against Pheu Thai in the 2025 prime minister vote, siding with Bhumjaithai, cutting all ties with his former boss. He is expected to run as a party-list MP for Palang Pracharath. Whether his move to "Uncle Pom's" camp this time will revive the party’s rating remains uncertain, amid ongoing rumors of instability within the party. "Uncle Pom" is a nickname for the Palang Pracharath leader.
3. The "Kla Tham Party": A new home... reliable ally?
It is notable that the Kla Tham Party has become a popular destination for former 'snake' MPs over the past year, with many notable names joining.
- Nuchanat Jaruwongsathien (former Pheu Thai) is contesting in Sisaket province.
- Krit Cheewathammanon (former Prachachon Party) switched from orange to run in Chonburi.
- Kanjana Jangka (former Palang Pracharath) shifted from "Uncle" to contest in Chaiyaphum.
This phenomenon reflects that Kla Tham Party is building a strong "major house" and ready-to-fight constituency MPs, undeterred by the drama of party switching.
4. Cross-switching camps: The fierce local battles.
This group represents switches reflecting intense fights in local constituencies:
- Sakda Wichiansin (former Pheu Thai) moved to Bhumjaithai to defend his seat in Kanchanaburi.
- Mangkon Yontarakul (former Seri Ruam Thai) switched to major party Pheu Thai aiming to enter parliament in Roi Et.
- Prapa Hengpaiboon (former Bhumjaithai) crossed over to Palang Pracharath to contest in Kalasin.
The 2026 election will be the true "test" between "party momentum" and "personal voter base and firepower." Which will prove more influential for this group of candidates, who bear the stigma of "snake" is the toughest challenge they must answer to the electorate.