Palang Pracharath Party Denies Split Over Southern Border Policy

Wanmuhammadnor Matha, Prime Minister's Adviser and Palang Pracharath Party Chairman, held a press conference on September 11 at Government House to address his open letter from September 9 regarding instability in the southern border provinces. He emphasized that the goal was to inform the public about the southern border crisis and the need for coordinated action toward peace. He noted that the public has suffered for over 20 years, with government spending exceeding 500 billion baht and thousands killed or injured. Without resolving this crisis and achieving lasting peace, the nation cannot move forward, he said. The southern border conflict affects the entire country and undermines foreign confidence in investment and tourism.

When asked whether his views conflicted with the security establishment, he clarified that differences in the negotiating committee were normal and needed adjustment rather than immediate alignment. He stated the government's special representative committee, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangkakhet, had held two meetings so far with considerable progress, developing a clearer strategy with working groups to be refined at the next session.

Regarding questions about internal party tension raised in his letter, Wanmuhammadnor said there was no split. He explained that party members naturally ask how the party should proceed, and the party's direction requires member support, particularly from party leadership and executives. He emphasized that no single individual decides the party's path but rather all members together. When pressed on whether Palang Pracharath was fractured, he firmly denied it, noting the party is small with only five parliamentary seats and roughly ten party executives, all with roles to play. As a coalition partner, he said, the party must support the government's advancement for the people. While differing views are normal among lawmakers and political parties, all must work to ensure the government progresses smoothly, creating confidence and strength beneficial to the public.