Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva Faces Intensifying Pressure to Resign Amid Electoral Commission's Decision to Dissolve Democrat Party

Strategic Insights -

The Thai prime minister, Abhisit Vejjajiva, is grappling with increasing pressure to step down after the country's electoral commission ordered the dissolution of his ruling Democrat party for accepting illegal donations. The decision comes amidst the worst political violence in a generation, with 21 people killed and over 800 injured in pitched battles between anti-government protesters and troops. The electoral commission's ruling, relating to a 2005 donation from cement manufacturer TPI Polene, must be approved by the attorney general before going to the constitutional court for a final adjudication. The move is seen as a significant blow to Abhisit's beleaguered government.

Key Takeaways:

  • The electoral commission's decision to dissolve the Democrat party is a significant blow to Abhisit's government, coming just days after the worst political violence in a generation.
  • The ruling relates to a 2005 donation from cement manufacturer TPI Polene, which exceeded the allowed limit of 10m Baht (pounds 200,000).
  • The decision must be approved by the attorney general before going to the constitutional court for a final adjudication, which may take months.
  • The military, an influential player in Thai politics, has called for fresh elections, with Army chief General Anupong Paojinda suggesting that dissolving parliament is the best solution to the crisis.
  • An October poll may not be enough to satisfy the red-shirts, who are demanding Abhisit's immediate resignation and departure from the country.
  • The red-shirt leader, Jatuporn Prompan, has vowed to continue protesting until Abhisit is no longer prime minister.

Statistics:

  • 21 people were killed in the weekend's protests.
  • Over 800 people were injured in the violence.
  • The electoral commission's ruling relates to a 258m Baht (pounds 5m) donation from TPI Polene in 2005.
  • Donations are limited to 10m Baht (pounds 200,000).
  • The attorney general's approval is required before the decision goes to the constitutional court for a final adjudication.
  • It may take months for the court process to be extinguished.

Sources:

  • The Guardian (no date provided)
  • Bangkok Post (no date provided)