Earlier this month, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai made a noteworthy visit to Koh Kut, a picturesque spot located near the Cambodian border. It seems he wasn’t just there to enjoy the scenic views but to address a matter that has piqued public interest and political tension alike. The government recently reassured the public that a 2001 memorandum of understanding with Cambodia concerning joint development in the Gulf of Thailand will not spark the kind of mass protests that have been rumored.
This comes in response to the ever-fiery Sondhi Limthongkul, former leader of the yellow-shirt movement and a well-known media personality. Sondhi has been stirring the pot, suggesting that he might hold regular public forums starting next year, a move that some political analysts fear could ignite widespread protest against the current Pheu Thai-led government.
In a heated discussion at Thammasat University’s Tha Prachan campus, Sondhi didn’t hold back. He lambasted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of legal ignorance and government slackness. Sondhi’s call to arms involves educating the masses—a clear implication that he is gearing up for what might be seen as a challenge to oust the Paetongtarn administration.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has played it cool, dismissing the likelihood of street protests. He emphasized that Sondhi, though controversial, has a constitutional right to rally. According to Phumtham, the government is prepared for scrutiny, and democratic mechanisms are in place to hold it accountable.
Phumtham, who also holds the Defence Ministry portfolio within the Pheu Thai Party, advised Sondhi to consider the economic aftermath of protests. He pointed to the past disruption caused by the People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) demonstrations, which once led to the shutdown of city airports, inflicting considerable economic damage.
Regarding Sondhi’s proposal for weekly gatherings, Phumtham remains unfazed, even referencing the 2006 protests led by Sondhi that culminated in a coup against Thaksin’s administration. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul supports Phumtham’s stance, emphasizing Sondhi’s legal right to protest.
Adding a layer to this political tapestry is the Khao Kradong land dispute. However, Bhumjaithai Party leader and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul downplayed any conflict between his party and Pheu Thai. He assured that the coalition parties are united under the prime minister’s leadership.
Sondhi, now 77, in a media chat confessed he hasn’t decided if he will rally in the streets against the Paetongtarn government. Despite his reluctance, he admitted he might take action if the political climate intensifies to the tipping point.
Echoing Sondhi’s sentiments, Panthep Phuaphongphan, a former leader of PAD, indicated that their recent forum was more of a litmus test for public readiness—a spark to kindle the enthusiasm of PAD supporters. However, he confirmed that no rallies are on the calendar just yet.
Panthep also touched on the public’s skepticism towards the government’s management of natural resources discussions with Cambodia, and doubts about former Prime Minister Thaksin’s health during his detention. He hinted that Sondhi plans to submit a petition to Prime Minister Paetongtarn next year, although the scale of public support remains cloaked in mystery. For now, it seems Sondhi is keeping his cards close to his chest.
Sondhi Limthongkul is just trying to stir up trouble for attention. Can’t people see it’s all a publicity stunt?
Publicity stunt or not, his influence can’t be underestimated. Remember the 2006 coup?
True, but hasn’t Sondhi’s political star waned since then? People should be more focused on real governance issues.
It’s a cyclical pattern in Thai politics, older figures trying to reclaim relevance. I doubt many will join his cause.
Perhaps, but you never know with Thai politics. It’s unpredictable, especially with Sondhi involved.
I feel the government should be more transparent about agreements with Cambodia. It would alleviate a lot of public anxiety.
Transparency is key, but are they hiding things? The government already clarified there’s nothing to worry about.
Clarification isn’t the same as transparency. We need documentation, not just reassurances.
Sondhi’s legal right to protest shouldn’t overshadow the economic impacts these demonstrations can have, especially in a fragile post-pandemic economy.
Economic concerns are valid, but isn’t democracy about allowing dissent and discussion, even if it risks short-term disruption?
Absolutely, but there must be balance. We can’t let political whims derail economic recovery efforts.
Does anyone actually think Sondhi’s right, or is it all just media sensationalism?
Sondhi often makes valid criticisms, but it’s hard to separate truth from theatrics with him.
Honestly, I don’t know why Koh Kut even matters. Shouldn’t we be more worried about domestic issues?
Foreign relations can heavily impact domestic situations, especially with neighboring countries.
I guess you’re right. I just feel like we have so many unresolved domestic issues right now too.
Phumtham Wechayachai seems surprisingly composed amidst this chaos. I think he’s handling it well.
Composed or complacent? Maybe he’s just playing down the threat to avoid public panic.
I remember the airport shutdowns. Those were tough times. The government should definitely prepare for any potential repeat.
I am more worried about border security than protests. The area around Koh Kut is quite sensitive.
Why is it always the same political figures causing turmoil? Isn’t it time for new leaders to emerge?
This whole situation sounds like a soap opera. Will Sondhi rally? Won’t he? It’s tiring.
The Khao Kradong land dispute sounds fishy too. Could it become a bigger issue between coalition parties?
It’s unlikely. Coalition politics often see these issues buried under diplomatic resolutions.
Politicians should focus on improving Thailand’s economy, not dragging us into more political drama.
Agreed. But political drama seems to be what people focus on the most. It’s like a distraction.
Who benefits from these protests? It seems like ordinary people stand to lose the most.
Visited Koh Kut last year. Such a beautiful place. I hope politics doesn’t ruin those areas.
Panthep’s idea to test public readiness? Sounds like manipulation.