Gen Prawit Wongsuwon’s Political Decline: A Falling Star in Thailand’s Dramatic Political Scene

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Politics in Thailand often plays out like a drama where the characters, both celebrated and notorious, take center stage to the applause or boos of the audience. Such was the scene on September 6, 2024, when Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, a veteran political figure, found himself under the spotlight once more during a Palang Pracharath Party meeting. This rare appearance was noteworthy since Gen Prawit, known for his frequent absences, had previously returned a staggering six-figure monthly salary amid public outcry over his performance. It was one of those moments that would be forever captured in time, much like a photograph by Pattarapong Chatpattarasill.

In the intricate ballet of Thai politics, no parliamentarian managed to capture the title of a ‘rising star’ for the third consecutive year. This accolade, typically bestowed by the media on those who shine with promise, found no suitable candidate. However, two names have made quite an impression for the opposite reason. Gen Prawit Wongsuwon and People’s Party MP Tisana Choonhavan were tagged as ‘fallen stars’—a label for those who once graced the political stage with vigor but now find themselves marred by controversy or inefficacy.

Gen Prawit, who once held the significant role of deputy prime minister and was a powerhouse in Prayut Chan-o-cha’s ranks, now finds himself relegated to the sideline of Thai politics. At 79, his health wavering and his House attendance sporadic, Gen Prawit’s influence and leadership of Palang Pracharath are seen as parts of a bygone era. His party’s dismissal from its coveted cabinet quota in the present Srettha Thavisin coalition only underscores his diminished clout. While he remains a part of the Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration, key allies deserted him, defecting to the Klatham Party, marking a significant political blow.

On the other end of the spectrum, we meet Ms. Tisana Choonhavan, whose political debut came with a stockpile of expectations drawn from her heritage as the granddaughter of Chatichai Choonhavan, a former prime minister. Though her hopes were sky-high, one slip proved costly. During a heated parliamentary debate, she quoted incorrect statistics repeatedly, seemingly oblivious to her gaffe. Her impassioned plea for recognizing Myanmar refugees’ status, intended to emphasize her human rights advocacy, backfired spectacularly, drawing ire on social media.

And then we have one Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, affectionately—or perhaps sarcastically—nicknamed “Thengteng,” a word that in Thai suggests floating without direction. As head of the People’s Party, stepping into the shoes of the defunct Move Forward Party’s leader, his leadership has been less than charismatic, and he doesn’t command the same respect his predecessor, Pita Limjaroenrat, still enjoys—even from beyond the political fray, where Pita’s charisma is still leveraged in campaigns.

Every year, political correspondents wade through these narratives to judge and jab politicians with nicknames befitting their deeds. This ritual offers not just a quirky insight into the political landscape but a measuring stick of sorts for who has risen, fallen, and simply meandered through the corridors of power.

And then there’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, whose campaign mantra, “We will make Thai people prosper and be honoured,” became a laughing stock. It seems to pop up unironically in conversations tainted with cynicism about the state of the Thai economy. It’s a token reminder that while some political promises shine bright with the potential to become blazing successes, they can just as easily burn out into punchlines recycled in social media wit.

In Thailand, where the theater of politics is always entertaining, this past year has certainly been one worth watching. Much like an ensemble cast in a high-stakes drama, some politicians have found themselves in the spotlight for the right reasons, and others for all the wrong ones. And as the lights dim on this year’s performance, we can only spectate and predict who will take center stage next.