Abhisit Vejjajiva back at the top: New direction for the Democrats!

Abhisit Vejjajiva back at the top: New direction for the Democrats!

Abhisit Vejjajiva is back – and with a strong signal. On Saturday, he was elected unopposed as the new leader of the Democratic Party during a lively general meeting at the Miracle Grand Hotel in Bangkok's Lak Si district. He received an impressive 96.2% of the votes cast by current MPs, former MPs and general party members. After an absence of around four years, he returns as the party's 10th chairman and aims to bring a breath of fresh air into the party. His predecessor Chalermchai Sri-on resigned for health reasons, which provided the appropriate framework for Abhisit's return.

Following his election, a ceremony was promptly held at which Abhisit and his newly appointed executive committee honored the earth goddess Phra Mae Thorani, the party's sacred symbol. A prayer was also held at the spirit house in the party headquarters. Abhisit highlighted that the meeting of the first meeting of the new Executive Committee served to determine the direction of the party. The topics discussed were nothing more and nothing less than the urgent electoral policies for the next four months.

Political challenges

The Democratic Party faces a noticeable challenge. With just 25 seats in the 500-member House of Representatives, it has seen a sharp decline compared to the 53 seats in the 2019 election. Analysts such as Stithorn Thananithichot see Abhisit's return as crucial to putting the party in a competitive position for the upcoming elections on March 29, 2026. The first session paid particular attention to the development of key economic and social policies that need to keep pace with the country's changing dynamics and citizens' expectations.

Abhisit had emphasized upon his return that his heart had never left the party and that he had actively recruited new members to broaden the base of the Democratic Party. Important personnel decisions were also made at the meeting: eight deputy chairmen with various key portfolios and Chaiwut Bannawat as party secretary were elected to realign and strengthen the party's structure.

A look into history

The Democratic Party, founded in 1946, has a long and checkered history in Thailand's political landscape. From its initial support for the conservative monarchy to the conflicts and upheavals of recent decades, the party has significantly influenced the country's political currents. Despite setbacks, including a massive electoral defeat in 2001 and recent electoral losses, its goal remains to counterbalance left-wing liberalism and promote a more stable political landscape. Expectations for Abhisit are high, especially with a view to the upcoming elections.

With Abhisit at the helm, the Democratic Party will be challenged in the coming months to strengthen its roots while innovating to meet the changing needs of the Thai electorate. Evaluate and adapt – that’s on the agenda. A good hand will be required to regain trust and consolidate the party base.