Former People’s Alliance for Democracy leader Sonthi Limthongkul announced a new political movement under the banner “Take Back Our Country,” pledging to gather public support, monitor government actions, and scrutinize independent bodies over allegations surrounding Senate elections and technology budgets, according to a public address.
The campaign launch, scheduled for Sept. 10, 2026, targets what Sonthi describes as entrenched power networks that persist despite changes in government. According to his remarks, the movement aims to challenge current political power structures, investigate potential irregularities in the recent Senate selection process involving the Election Commission, and question state expenditures on external technology contracts.
Movement Goals and Senate Election Scrutiny
Sonthi stated that the new political push seeks to address systemic issues rather than temporary political conflicts. According to his announcement, the movement will focus heavily on the Election Commission and potential legal cases surrounding the Senate selection process. He cautioned that if authorities cut short investigations or target only lower-level figures without reaching individuals in power, public trust in independent organizations could diminish. He specifically pointed to Sept. 14, 2026, as a critical date to watch for potential decisions by the Election Commission.
Did You Know? Sonthi Limthongkul announced initial plans to visit the Embassy of Israel on Sept. 10, 2026, at 09:30 a.m. to submit a letter requesting the deportation of Israeli nationals causing problems in Thailand.
Budget Concerns and Governance Critiques
Beyond institutional oversight, the movement targets state spending, highlighting a 1,621 million baht budget allocated for technology and AI projects. According to Sonthi, renting external tech systems rather than developing domestic capabilities wastes public funds. He argued that the government should invest that money in local workforce development and homegrown artificial intelligence.
The critique extends to broader governance issues, including energy prices, oil hoarding, flood relief efforts, bureaucratic corruption, and foreign land ownership and business operations. He contrasted these economic concerns with military efforts to protect national sovereignty along the Thai-Cambodian border, urging the administration to maintain a clear stance on territorial integrity.
To amplify his message, Sonthi challenged prominent figures directly, stating he would livestream daily to counter statements from political opponents like Anutin Charnvirakul, asserting that the public deserves leaders who adhere to the rule of law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central theme of Sonthi Limthongkul’s new political movement?
The movement operates under the concept of “Take Back Our Country,” aiming to unite citizens to pressure authorities, combat corruption, and challenge existing power networks.
What specific dates did Sonthi highlight for the movement?
Sonthi announced plans to visit the Israeli Embassy on Sept. 10, 2026, and pointed to Sept. 14, 2026, as a crucial date to monitor potential decisions by the Election Commission regarding Senate election allegations.
What budget item did Sonthi criticize in his address?
He questioned the value of a 1,621 million baht budget allocated for renting external technology and AI systems, suggesting the funds should instead build domestic technological capacity.
?Do you believe grassroots public movements can effectively pressure governments to alter major policy decisions?