With only a few months left before Thailand's general election next year, the Pheu Thai Party, led by the Shinawatra family (former Prime Ministers), has recently suffered consecutive defeats in two parliamentary by-elections, drawing attention to its electoral prospects. On the 22nd, former Prime Minister Paetongtarn issued a statement announcing her resignation as Pheu Thai Party leader, pledging a comprehensive reorganization and emphasizing that a thorough overhaul of the party's internal structure is crucial ahead of the important election.
In the by-election held in Chachoengsao Province's 5th constituency on September 28, the Pheu Thai candidate secured around 31,000 votes, failing to match the over 40,000 votes won by the ruling Bhumjaithai Party opponent. Then, on October 19th, a by-election in Kamphaeng Phet Province's 4th constituency saw the Bhumjaithai Party candidate claim over 53,000 votes, defeating the Pheu Thai opponent who received only about 36,000 votes.
Paetongtarn stated that she decided to step down as Pheu Thai Party leader, hoping this could be a fresh start for the party. She said Thailand is entering a most crucial period of transformation, especially with the approaching general election.
She said that Pheu Thai needs a thorough reform of its organizational structure, operational processes, and mindset. Therefore, she chose to resign as party leader so that Pheu Thai can independently carry out reforms and create a brand new, more complete party.
Paetongtarn also stated that after resigning as party leader, she remains a member of the Pheu Thai Party.