On 9 July, former House Speaker Dr. Arthit Urairat, announced the formation of an new party-Seritham (Liberal Democratic). Arthit's intention was to distance himself from Samakkhi Tham, where he was no longer welcome and where he had never really felt comfortable, and to capitalise on the popularity he had achieved through his decision to nominate Anand for the prime ministership. He let his position be known quite clearly when he declared that his party. would not join a coalition with Chart Thai and Chart Pattana. His aim was to promote the cause of democracy, and in anticipation of winning 20-30 seats, he saw his party as playing a key role in the formation of any future coalition government.