Established political parties have welcomed "young bloods" applying for new party registrations, but warned them about the tough road that lies ahead.
A total of 42 parties registered at the Election Commission on Friday, the first day of a month-long window in which new parties can enrol, as a possible election in February next year looms.
As well as a party expected to be established by street protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban, eyes are also on Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the 39-year-old executive vice-president of Thai Summit Group, one of the country's largest auto parts makers, who expressed a desire to form a new party catering to young voters. His likely co-founder is 38-year-old Piyabutr Saengkanokku, a law lecturer at Thammasat University and noted member of the Nitirat group whose members include progressive law specialists.
