Thai anti-junta party begins recruitment ahead of polls

A Thai progressive anti-junta political party yesterday began recruiting members for the 2019 elections a few days after Thailand’s Election Commission approved the party’s status.“We’re inviting anyone who cannot tolerate the cycle of old politics and want to make changes,” said Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, founder of the Future Forward Party, the only party so far to take a clear anti-military stance, at a press conference in Bangkok.“We’re willing to work with any parties holding the same ideals, namely non-acceptance of extended military power into the future, amending the entire constitution and eradicate outcomes of the coup,” the 39-year-old added.Thanathorn’s remarks came amidst a gradual revival of political activities in Thailand, as the ruling military government allowed political parties to recruit members and convene meetings in early September ahead of general elections, tentatively set for February.A full lift of the junta’s ban on political activities – including election campaigns – is expected in December.Since coming into power in a May 2014 coup, the junta has postponed election dates at least four times, citing the need to fulfil its reforms and ensure political stability.But as the regime is paving the way for a democratic election, its opponents have criticised its attempt to prolong power through pro-junta parties, especially when Prime Minister and junta leader Prayut Chan-o-cha expressed interest in joining politics last week.The regime has also been criticised for punishing opponents with lawsuits, as Thanathorn and his two fellow party members were charged in mid-September for a computer crime violation after criticising the junta on Facebook.“This is not a pressing concern. The charges against us are not deterring us in any way,” he said.