Theerayut Calls for Internal Party Discussions to End, Emphasizes Unity After Piyabutr-Wiroj Criticism
Pheu Thai Party leader Nattapong Rueangpanya called for an end to internal party disputes, urging members to resolve disagreements privately rather than publicly criticize leadership at a Bangkok hotel event on April 26.
At 11:50 AM on April 26, 2025, at the Maple Hotel in Bangkok, Nattapong Rueangpanya, list-based MP and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, spoke about reducing the role of the "Big House" within the party. He stated that political work creating change must be open, with public interest and national goals as the foundation. Therefore, the candidate selection process should be expedited so they can serve the public fully. While background checks are necessary, the party does not solely judge by surname. He noted that some MPs and party executives may share surnames with leaders of other political parties but possess strong ideology and volunteer commitment to creating change.
"Regardless of surname, as long as they decide to join Pheu Thai to work according to party ideology, we must give them a chance and let constituents decide," Nattapong said. "The faster we nominate and decide, the sooner they can demonstrate their abilities outside election season, showing their true intentions."
When asked about Deputy Party Leader Wirayut Kanchuchutcharand's comments that prominent individuals collapse processes, Nattapong said we should look at the bigger picture. A few groups are attempting to control public freedoms and state power through various channels, including questioning the NACC, dissolving parties, and corruption.
"Small daily disagreements, especially within the party, should be discussed internally," Nattapong stated. "Once consensus is reached on certain matters, internal criticism shouldn't be voiced publicly as it undermines party unity. This was settled three days ago."
Regarding former Future Forward Secretary-General Piyabutr Saengkanokkul's criticism of Pheu Thai, Nattapong said he doesn't believe such criticism will shake the party. He emphasized looking at the public's perspective. If all parties receive equal criticism, public interest will be served. Nattapong noted that Piyabutr is no longer a party member and has full freedom to criticize, unlike party members bound by discipline.
