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Published on September 8, 2007

"We will wait until after the election result to decide who should get our support as the next prime minister. But I expect that person to come from our side," said Sanan.

He said there was an opportunity for his current three-party alliance of the Mahachon, Chat Thai and Democrat parties to join forces with other groups. However, this would depend on whether they have the same ideas as the three core parties.

The veteran politician was speaking during a party to celebrate his 72nd birthday at his house in Nonthaburi, where many leading politicians were among the well-wishers.

Sanan said that as a birthday gift, he wanted all factions to cooperate to form the government after the next election.

He said his party had no candidate for the government leader's post, adding that he just wanted to have seats in Parliament.

Among the well-wishers present at Sanan's house were political allies Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva, Chat Thai leader Banharn Silapa-archa, Chat Thai deputy leader Somsak Prissanananthakul, Matchima group leader Somsak Thepsuthin, and other key members.

Ruam Jai Thai group key figures Anek Laothamatas, Pradit Phattaraprasit and Pornthep Tejapaibool, Pracharaj Party leader Snoh Thienthong, Chalerm Yoobamrung and Prachamati Party leader Pramuan Rujanaseree also attended.

Key members from the rival People Power Party (PPP) did not appear at the event.

However, PPP member Sudarat Keyuraphan's representative presented a flower bouquet, and former prime minister General Chavalit Yongchaiyudh's close aide also gave flowers to the Mahachon leader.

Chalerm said he hoped Sanan would become the "king-maker" for the next government. The Mahachon leader smiled and thanked him.

Snoh said he was ready to work with Sanan, adding they will be serving as "main pillars" for younger politicians.

The Nation