In a whirlwind of political maneuvering, a rift of substantial proportions has emerged within the ranks of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), the third largest coalition partner. At the epicenter of this discord is none other than Capt Thammanat Prompow, the party’s secretary-general and interim agriculture minister. In an audacious move, he has openly refused to communicate with Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, the party leader, and hinted at an impending exit. This political tempest coincides with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s mission to finalize her coalition cabinet following her recent inauguration.
Standing tall at Government House on a typical Tuesday morning, Capt Thammanat unveiled his stance with a direct declaration. “As he does not use me anymore, I do not need to talk,” he remarked, referring to Gen Prawit. The statement was as blunt as it was revealing, illuminating Thammanat’s view of his diminished role within the party.
Reflecting on his contributions, Capt Thammanat shared, “I have helped form and have worked for the party for six years. I have served one person and one party long enough.” His contemplative tone turned resolute as he added, “It’s time for me to step back without disputing with anyone… It’s time for me to declare my freedom.”
With the hint of a rebellious spirit, Capt Thammanat announced, “From now on I am ready to leave, with other members, for somewhere there is happiness.” His plan for a liberating lunch with like-minded allies at the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives later that day sounded like the first step toward a new political journey.
The political leverage Capt Thammanat holds cannot be underestimated. He reportedly wields influence over a significant faction within the PPRP, comprising 30 of the 40 MPs. As the coalition parties boast more than 300 MPs in the 500-seat House, his departure could be a game-changer. When asked about the exact number of MPs under his sway, he tantalizingly replied, “They will know the answer on Tuesday afternoon.”
Clarifying his intentions, Capt Thammanat assured, “Let’s say that we separate our existence clearly. But I won’t ruin the nation or the government.” This message seemed designed to reassure the public while signaling his readiness for a strategic but non-destructive shift.
Speculation swirled around Capt Thammanat’s exclusion from the party’s ministerial nominations list. When probed about this, he dismissed it as mere conjecture, emphasizing that the prime minister was not bound by the party’s lineup. This statement opened doors to a myriad of possibilities regarding his political future.
However, Capt Thammanat’s past has not been without shadows. In a revelation that continues to haunt him, he served four years in an Australian prison following a conviction on March 31, 1994, for conspiring to import heroin into the country. Sentenced to six years, he was released after four years and subsequently deported. Capt Thammanat staunchly denies the offence, maintaining it was nothing more than a misunderstanding involving flour.
Adding to the political drama, Ms. Paetongtarn’s predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, faced a dramatic downfall when the court removed him from office for ethical breaches. His misstep involved the controversial appointment of a cabinet member who had a tainted history, having previously attempted to bribe the Supreme Court.
As the political landscape in Thailand continues to shift and evolve, the coming days promise more intrigue and changes. Capt Thammanat’s bold move may just be the beginning of a seismic shift within the Palang Pracharath Party and the broader coalition. For the observers, it’s a political rollercoaster ride not to be missed, with more thrilling twists and turns on the horizon.
This reeks of inner-party turmoil. Capt Thammanat leaving could disrupt the entire coalition government.
You’re absolutely right. If he takes those 30 MPs with him, it could lead to a collapse of the coalition.
I think this might just be a power play by Thammanat. He’s trying to assert his importance.
That might be, but even as a power play, it’s still risky. The stakes are high in this game of politics.
Why is no one talking about his criminal past? He was in prison for importing heroin, for goodness’ sake!
Yeah, it’s crazy. How can someone with that kind of past even be in politics?
People change. He did his time and now he’s trying to serve his country. Not everyone sees things in black and white.
What will happen to the Ministry of Agriculture if Thammanat leaves? He has a lot of influence there.
Good point. Agriculture is a critical sector. Losing an experienced minister could have big consequences.
This is just another example of the instability in Thai politics. One day they’re allies, the next they’re enemies.
Thammanat stepping back could be a good thing. Sometimes new leadership brings fresh ideas.
I’m concerned about how this will affect the international perception of Thailand. Political instability doesn’t help.
Well, considering Thammanat’s past, maybe it’s better for the party if he leaves.
That’s a shallow view. You can’t ignore his contributions just because of his past.
Why is Thammanat being so dramatic? If he wants to leave, just leave. Why make a show of it?
Maybe it’s his way of negotiating. By creating drama, he might be trying to get something from the party.
What happens next will be intriguing. Who might step up to take his place if he leaves?
I feel bad for Gen Prawit. Managing a coalition must be like herding cats.
Thammanat should just focus on his work rather than making these statements. It’s unprofessional.
This feels like a vendetta. Thammanat is obviously upset about not being on the nominations list.
Politics in Thailand is like a soap opera. Always plenty of drama!
I think it’s time for a new generation of leaders to step up. The current ones are too embroiled in past controversies.
Has anyone considered that this might just be a distraction from something bigger happening behind the scenes?
Wouldn’t surprise me. Politicians are masters of misdirection.