In a move that has reignited both hope and controversy, Thailand’s oldest political party voted today to reinstate Abhisit Vejjajiva—the conservative former prime minister known for his eloquence, intellect, and turbulent past—as its new leader.
Abhisit, who led Thailand from 2008 to 2011 during the global financial crisis, first rose to prominence for his calm demeanor and persuasive debating style. Yet his tenure was forever shadowed by the 2010 military crackdown on “Red Shirt” protesters, which left over 90 people dead and thousands injured—a tragedy that many still remember vividly.
Once hailed as a modern, reform-minded leader, Abhisit’s name became synonymous with division. Labeled by critics as “the PM with blood on his hands,” his political fortunes waned as the Democrat Party fractured internally. He eventually resigned from leadership and quit the party altogether in 2023, marking what many believed was the end of his political journey.
Today, however, that chapter has reopened. In a decisive vote broadcast live across Thai media, 96 percent of party members supported his reinstatement. Wearing the party’s signature blue, the 61-year-old addressed supporters with emotion:
“I thank everyone for trusting my ability once again. My heart never left here.”
His comeback arrives at a critical time. Thailand’s minority government, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, is preparing for a possible election within four months. Political analysts believe Abhisit’s return could reinvigorate the Democrat Party and position him as a serious contender in the upcoming polls.
Ekkarin Tuansiri, a political scientist at Prince of Songkla University, told ThaiPBS: “People already have long-standing connections with him and the Democrat Party, but it won’t be easy.”
Founded in 1946, the Democrat Party has long been a cornerstone of Thai politics but has struggled in recent years with waning public support and internal division. For many, Abhisit’s return symbolizes a possible revival. For others, it’s a reminder of a painful past.
Born in England and educated at Oxford, Abhisit—who holds dual Thai-British citizenship—has often faced criticism for being “out of touch” with everyday Thais and for allegedly evading compulsory military service. Still, for his supporters, his comeback offers a renewed sense of stability and vision in uncertain political times.
In the end, this reinstatement is more than just political maneuvering—it’s a story of redemption, memory, and resilience in a nation still searching for unity. Only time will tell whether Abhisit’s second act will heal old wounds or reopen them.
