The oldest political party in Thailand used the occasion to recount its past glory and raise funds for an election in which it will try to unseat the Thai Rak Thai government.

Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva, secretary-general Suthep Thaugsuban, deputy secretary-general Korn Chatikavanij, deputy leader Apirak Kosayodhin, spokesman Ong-art Klampaiboon, former MPs and MP candidates were on hand to greet more than 2,000 guests.

The ceremony included an exhibition as well as a political drama depicting party "legends" and former leaders, including Khuang Abhaiwongse, MR Seni Pramoj and Chuan Leekpai.

Chat Thai Party leader Banharn Silpa-archa presented a bouquet to Abhisit. Other luminaries who turned out to show support for the party included Pracharat Party founder Snoh Thienthong, outgoing senators Karun Sai-ngam and Thawil Praison, activist Ekkayuth Anchanbutr and actor Rawich Terdwong.

Poet and national artist Naowarat Pongpaibul recited "The Ratanakosin Rhyme" to assembled guests.

The party's assistant secretary-general Nualphan Lamsam said more than 3,000 guests had attended the festivities, including more than 30 ambassadors and envoys.

Guests paid Bt500,000 for a table with the proceeds going to support the party's campaign in the next election.

Surai Kawtong, 59, said she had bought a ticket for Bt50,000 because she loved the party. Although she is not a member she wants Democrats to form the next government with Abhisit as the premier, she said.

Her friend Sombat Kanchana-kamanan, 75, said she had been a member of the party for 30 years. The party belongs to the people, not to a person, and was itself run democratically, Sombat said.

"If we don't help the party, it won't survive as it doesn't have much money to give to its MPs," she said. "Members must give it financial support."

Addressing party supporters about the coming election, Abhisit said the party would focus on providing free basic education and support vocational schools. Regarding infrastructure, he said new construction must be prioritised on the basis of the needs of the people.

Kornchanok Raksaseri

The Nation