The dissolution of the Move Forward Party by Thailand’s Constitutional Court is deeply regrettable

Statement from International IDEA — On 7 August 2024, Thailand’s Constitutional Court ruled to disband the Move Forward Party (MFP) and banned its executives including former leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, from standing for elections, setting up a new political party or taking part in forming a new party for 10 years. This decision undermines democratic principles and marks a severe setback for democratic development in the Kingdom of Thailand.

The ruling followed a decision by the Court on 31 January, which stated that MFP’s attempts to amend Section 112 of the Criminal Code, known as the lèse-majesté law, demonstrated an intent to undermine the constitutional monarchy. The MFP defended its actions, clarifying that its intention was not to undermine the monarchy but to propose amendments to an outdated law, including reducing the severe penalties attached to lèse-majesté offenses, in line with their election manifesto and following numerous and long-standing recommendations by international human rights bodies and advocacy groups.

In a parliamentary democracy, it is crucial that members of parliament can propose and discuss law reforms without fear of repercussions. The dissolution of the party and the ban on its executives is a disproportionate punishment for such actions.

The dissolution of the MFP in 2024 is just the latest in a series of political parties being disbanded or banned since the military coup of 2006. Thailand’s Constitution of 2017, adopted following the military coup of 2014, continues to facilitate such lawfare and is in dire need of democratic reform.

(The Move Forward Party won the most seats in the 2023 general election and has remained the most popular party according to opinion polls. The next general election is scheduled for 2027).