Once again, even one week before official registration of election candidates had opened, the battle lines had been drawn. On the one side were the four former opposition parties-Democrat, New Aspiration, Palang Dharma and Solidarity-and on the other were the parties that had previously supported Suchinda-Chart Thai, Social Action, Prachakorn hai and Rassadorn. Despite Chatichai's claims to be holding the middle ground, the composition of his Chart Pattana Party showed where it truly stood. Only Dr. Arthit's Seritham Party could claim any neutrality, and if anything, based on Arthit's nomination of Anand as Prime Minister, would lean towards the former group. Unfortunately for Arthit, he had spent so long in finding a party, tha his ranks had deserted him, leaving his chances of heading anything but a small party as very slight indeed.