The emergence of the so-called "middle-path" parties in the lead-up to the next general election could play a significant role in deciding which major player can muster enough support to form the next government, critics have said.
Sudarat launches new party Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, centre. (File photo)
Former Pheu Thai heavyweight Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan, who left the opposition party last month, has started a new political party.
Her Thai Srang Thai (National Building Party) has been registered with the Election Commission (EC) and once it is formally approved, will convene a general assembly to select an executive board, according to a Pheu Thai source.
The party is also likely to be renamed to avoid being confused with the similar-sounding Srang Thai Institute, which is chaired by Khunying Sudarat.
She will decide on a new party name with her close aides, the source added.