Former finance minister Korn Chatikavanij has announced that he is stepping down as the leader of the Chart Pattana Kla Party to spend more time with his family.

On 25 June 2023, Korn Chatikavanij released a resignation statement on Facebook. He said he met Party Chair Suwat Liptapanlop to submit his resignation letter.

As former leader, Korn expressed his gratitude to the people for their votes for the Party. Korn stated that as a Thai citizen he will continue advocating the party’s policies. For the past 18 years, he had been honoured with the opportunity to serve the Thai people and his beloved country as an elected politician. He added that he will focus on spending time with his family.

“I would like to thank everyone who has helped me with this mission since 2005. Our country still has many problems waiting to be addressed. I would like to encourage my political friends from all parties and I want to give special encouragement to the politicians who are about to begin work in parliament for the first time. Do not let your wishes dominate your mind and words too much. Work by creating positive power together in society” said Korn.

Korn began his political career with the Democrat Party in 2005 and was Finance Minister from 2008-2011 in the administration of Abhisit Vejjajiva, his classmate at St John’s College, Oxford University. In 2020, he resigned from the Democrats to form his own party, the Kla Party. In 2022, he joined forces with the Chartpattana Party, which was consequently renamed Chart Pattana Kla.

Manager Online reported that Worawoot Ounjai has simultaneously resigned as the deputy leader. He said he will continue his position as a Thai businessman supporting Thai SMEs and entrepreneurs as he has done throughout his lifetime.

On 26 June 2023, Suwat confirmed Korn’s resignation, saying that Korn is still a member of the Party despite his resignation as the leader.

Suwat said prior to Korn’s resignation, Kobsak Sabhavasu stepped down as chair of the Party’s strategy and policy board. Suwat said he appreciated their work during the general election. He added that the Party’s Board of Directors will hold a meeting this week to select a new leader.

The Thai News Agency revealed that the reason behind the resignation is the election results, as the Party did not receive the expected number of seats. His resignation as the Party’s leader is to show responsibility.