Move Forward Party (MFP) leader, Pita Limjaroenrat, has tested positive for COVID-19, as confirmed by Chaithawat Tulathon, the party’s secretary-general. The announcement comes as a setback for the MFP, as Pita will be unable to attend a crucial meeting involving leaders from the eight coalition parties, scheduled for June 22. Additionally, he will also miss a significant seminar where all of the party’s Members of Parliament (MPs) were set to be present.
Chaithawat expressed optimism about Pita’s recovery, assuring that he is expected to make a full recuperation and will rejoin the MPs in reporting to parliament on June 27. However, Pita’s absence from the imminent gathering raises concerns about the party’s ability to effectively participate and represent its interests in the discussions and decisions that will transpire among the coalition leaders.
Taking to Facebook, Pita himself urged individuals who have had close contact with him in the past week to closely monitor themselves for any symptoms of COVID-19. He disclosed that he began experiencing symptoms on June 18, shortly after returning from a visit to Chiang Mai, where he took the opportunity to express his gratitude to his steadfast supporters.
In response to the onset of symptoms, Pita acted responsibly and voluntarily isolated himself within the confines of his home, refraining from venturing outside. He has halted all activities and will remain in quarantine until he makes a complete recovery. This precautionary measure aims to prevent further transmission of the virus and protect those around him from potential exposure.
An MFP official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that this marks the third time Pita has contracted COVID-19. The circumstances surrounding his repeated infections remain unclear, raising questions about the nature of his exposure and the effectiveness of the precautionary measures undertaken thus far.
As Pita battles the virus for the third time, the MFP faces an arduous task of maintaining momentum and cohesion within its ranks. The absence of its leader at crucial political events poses challenges for the party’s influence and ability to shape policy decisions in the coming days. The MFP will need to adapt swiftly and ensure efficient communication among its members to mitigate any potential setbacks caused by Pita’s absence from these critical engagements.
