After the Move Forward Party (MFP) was dissolved by court order on August 7, it has risen again as the People’s Party (PP), with MFP party-list MP Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut chosen to lead it. The new party and leader were announced on August 9 at a meeting of MFP members at the Thai Summit Tower in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district.
Key Takeaways
- Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, a 37-year-old tech entrepreneur, is the new leader of the People’s Party.
- The People’s Party is the reincarnation of the dissolved Move Forward Party (MFP).
- The announcement was made at the Thai Summit Tower in Bangkok.
Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut: A Brief Introduction
Natthaphong, nicknamed Teng, is the fourth son of real-estate tycoon Suchart Ruengpanyawut, who is the managing director of Chanunthorn Development Group and president of Ruengpanya Kehakran Ltd. Suchart’s companies develop luxury houses, condominiums, and townhomes mostly in the Thonburi area of Bangkok.
Educational Background and Early Career
Natthaphong completed his bachelor’s in computer engineering at Chulalongkorn University and opened the software firm, Absolute Management Solutions Co Ltd, upon graduation. His expertise in technology quickly made him a valuable asset in the political arena.
Political Journey
- Future Forward Party (FFP): Natthaphong was entrusted by Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, former leader of the now-defunct FFP, to oversee the party’s online platform.
- Move Forward Party (MFP): He continued his role when FFP reincarnated as MFP.
- 2019 General Election: Natthaphong contested under the FFP banner for Bangkok’s constituency 28 (Bang Khae) and won narrowly against a candidate of the then-ruling Palang Pracharath Party.
- 2023 General Election: He ran as a party-list candidate for MFP and won. His adviser, Thanyathorn Dhaninwattanathorn, contested in the Bangkok constituency 30 (Bang Khae – Phasi Charoen) and won against Pheu Thai’s Supaporn Kongwutpanya.
Current Role and Responsibilities
As an MP, Natthaphong currently chairs the House of Representatives ad hoc committee responsible for budget preparation and follow-up. His leadership skills and tech-savvy background make him a promising figure in Thai politics.
The New Leadership Team
- Deputy Leader: Sirikanya Tansakul, who served as MFP deputy leader, will continue in her role for the new party.
- Secretary-General: Former MFP director Sarayut Jailak will serve as the new party’s secretary-general.
The rise of the People’s Party under Natthaphong’s leadership marks a new chapter in Thailand’s political landscape, promising innovation and a fresh approach to governance.
Sources
- Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut: The tech whiz leading new People’s Party, Nation Thailand.
- Who is Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut? The tech whiz leading Thailand’s new People’s Party | The Straits Times, The Straits Times.
