Gen Prawit Wongsuwon flashed a broad smile as he showed off his ID badge, freshly minted after his registration as a newly elected list MP of the Palang Pracharath Party—a party he proudly leads. This scene, captured back in June last year, made headlines and symbolized a new chapter in his already illustrious career. Little did anyone know then that the story would take an unexpected twist.
Fast forward to today, and the political landscape has shifted dramatically. The Palang Pracharath Party’s Secretary-General, Paiboon Nititawan, revealed some shocking news this Tuesday: Gen Prawit has announced he will no longer accept his MP salary and allowances owing to his frequent absences from parliament. Yes, you heard that right. Starting October 1, Gen Prawit has decided to forgo his salary and related perks.
“He even requested a detailed report on his accumulated salary and allowances to return the money!” Mr. Paiboon shared, his eyes wide with admiration for the man he serves under. “Gen Prawit aims to set an example for MPs who juggle considerable responsibilities and might need to take frequent business leave from parliament.”
In a letter to the House secretary-general, Gen Prawit expressed his intentions clearly. But that’s not all. Despite submitting yet another leave request for Thursday, he made a solemn promise to amp up his presence in the future, as revealed by Mr. Paiboon.
This move comes amidst growing criticism and a chorus of complaints regarding Gen Prawit’s poor attendance record. And it’s not just public grumbling—House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha has sanctioned an investigation into the retired general’s frequent no-shows, following pressure from Prompong Nopparit, a former spokesman for the Pheu Thai Party.
Prompong minced no words. “Gen Prawit attended a mere 11 parliamentary sessions since July 3 last year,” he pointed out, raising eyebrows across the political spectrum. The reason behind these absences? Gen Prawit, now 79, cites frail health and an avalanche of other responsibilities.
For a position boasting a monthly salary of 113,560 baht along with generous medical, pension, and other welfare benefits, the stakes are high. MPs can also rake in a pretty penny through meeting allowances, especially those deeply involved in committee work. So, Gen Prawit’s voluntary forfeiture is nothing short of astounding.
Riding the wave of controversy, there’s also the curious case of Gen Prawit’s living arrangements. Like his fellow 2014 coup protagonist Prayut Chan-o-cha, Gen Prawit resides in plush accommodation at the 1st Infantry Regiment in Bangkok’s Phaya Thai district. Interestingly, this military base also houses the Five Border Provinces Forest Preservation Foundation, an organization he helms. He conducts much of his political operations from this very base.
As the storm brews, the question on everyone’s lips is simple: Is this a mere PR move or the beginning of the end for Gen Prawit’s political journey? The coming days promise to be nothing short of dramatic. Stay tuned, as the corridors of power echo with the shifting winds of change.
Isn’t this just damage control? Prawit can’t fix his absenteeism with a PR stunt!
Maybe it’s damage control, but it’s still a bold move. How many politicians would give up their salary voluntarily?
But how much of a ‘sacrifice’ is it when he’s living in plush military accommodations? It’s just optics.
Exactly, John. He’s already got a cushy lifestyle. It’s no real loss for him.
Honestly, I think it’s the least he could do. He barely shows up to parliament sessions.
At 79, maybe it’s time for Prawit to retire anyway. Age and frail health aren’t exactly great for active politics.
True, but age shouldn’t be a reason to disqualify anyone. It’s about performance and commitment.
Agreed, K8. But when age interferes with performance, it’s different. Clearly, he’s not pulling his weight.
He attended only 11 sessions since last year? That’s insane. No wonder people are upset.
You have to also consider the reasons he gave. Frail health isn’t something he can control.
Still, he should step down if he can’t fulfill his job requirements. It’s unfair to the public.
Fair point, grower134. But it’s also a harsh reality of politics. Many MPs have similar attendance issues.
The fact that he’s living comfortably and barely working is what irks me the most.
I feel like this move is more symbolic than anything else. He can afford to not take his salary.
Could this be a stepping stone for bigger changes in political accountability?
I doubt it. One man’s actions don’t usually lead to systemic change. Let’s see.
True, but it could start a conversation. That’s a beginning, right?
People love to criticize, but no one knows the weight of his responsibilities. Give the guy a break.
He chose to be in this position, Liam. Criticism comes with the job.
Fair enough, but empathy goes a long way. We’re all human.
I agree with Timothy. If he can’t handle the responsibilities, he should step down.
Does anyone else think his living situation at the military base is shady?
Yeah, it definitely raises some red flags. Very convenient for him.
Shady or not, it’s legal. Corruption isn’t always easy to define.
Right, Victoria. Corruption isn’t always about what’s illegal, but what’s ethical.
Taking this at face value, it’s hard to deny it’s a noble gesture. But what’s next?
If he’s so committed now, why wasn’t he attending sessions earlier? Just seems too convenient.
Convenient timing indeed. It’s likely a reaction to the pressure from the investigation.
Exactly, Politico2024. It’s all reactive.
Even if it’s reactive, at least it’s a step in the right direction.
There has to be more to the story. Politicians don’t just give up their salaries for the fun of it.
We should look at this positively. At least he’s addressing his attendance issue somewhat.
Addressing it? Seems like he’s trying to sweep it under the rug with a grand gesture.
Gamechanger92, you might be right. But it’s better than complete silence.
All this attention on one man’s salary. How about focusing on real policy changes instead?
True, Hannah. Politicians’ personal dramas often overshadow important issues.