Picture this: a bustling crowd in Chiang Rai, a vibrant Pheu Thai campaign rally, and none other than the iconic former Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, in the spotlight. The atmosphere was electric as supporters gathered to back Salakjit Tiyapairat, a promising candidate running for the Chiang Rai provincial administration organization elections. However, the event took an unexpected turn, leaving controversy in its wake, all due to a series of poorly chosen words by Thaksin himself.
As he delivered a fiery speech urging Thais to seize opportunities within the glamorous entertainment industry, Thaksin’s remarks veered sharply off course. He made disparaging comments about African models, suggesting that Thai people naturally appeared more attractive. Indeed, he stated, “African people, who have black skin and flat noses that make it difficult to breathe, are paid millions to model. Thai people look much better. There’s no need for [our people to get] nose, jaw, or breast augmentation.” It was intended perhaps to be a call for Thai pride, but instead, it struck a discordant, and many say, offensive note.
The backlash was swift and came from various quarters. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit wasn’t shy about expressing her disapproval, calling for a public apology from Thaksin. Her criticism was clear: “Remarks like these not only breach our constitution but also contradict international norms on human equality, to which Thailand is a signatory. Discrimination based on skin color is a serious issue that cannot be brushed aside.” Enunciating her point further, she implored Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s own daughter, to address the issue decisively.
The controversy, however, seems to have done little to dampen Pheu Thai candidates’ enthusiasm for Thaksin’s charm on the campaign trail. Despite the uproar, plans for him to canvass continued unabated. For instance, Krissada Tanterdthid, a former MP from Nong Khai, announced Thaksin’s visit to their province on January 19 to drum up support for their party’s candidate. Likewise, Wiwatchai Hotrawaisaya, campaigning for the Si Sat Ket PAO chief position, expressed eagerness for Thaksin’s involvement, stating, “We await his confirmation and hope he campaigns with the same vigor as he did in Chiang Rai.”
The electoral race, especially against rivals like Wichit Traisaranakul, promises to be fiercely competitive. Yet, Pheu Thai isn’t letting up. Thaksin is slated for a whirlwind tour across 16 provinces to bolster his party’s chances before the pivotal elections on February 1. His itinerary includes traveling to Lampang on January 12, where it’s vital for Pheu Thai to reclaim the influence they once held. The now-defunct Move Forward Party had surprised many by winning three out of four constituencies in the 2023 election, and Thaksin’s presence may be just what’s needed to tip the scales back in Pheu Thai’s favor.
Even regions inclined towards the Bhumjaithai Party aren’t off Thaksin’s radar. Come January 19, he plans to enter the politically charged zone of Bueng Kan, aiming to rally support for Bhumphan Boonmatun. The challenge is significant, given the strong foothold Deputy Interior Minister Songsak Thongsri’s family holds there. Yet, if there’s one thing history has shown, it’s that Thaksin’s rallies are anything but predictable.
As the campaign narrative unfurls, all eyes remain on Thaksin. Whether or not he addresses the criticism remains to be seen, yet his ingrained charisma continues to captivate audiences. Undoubtedly, the coming weeks promise more twists, perfectly timed for this roller-coaster political season in Thailand.
Thaksin’s comments were completely out of line. Why is Pheu Thai still relying on him?
It’s because despite everything, Thaksin has this magnetic appeal that pulls voters.
But isn’t it time to evolve past this kind of outdated rhetoric? It’s 2025!
Thaksin is just telling it like it is. Thai beauty is appreciated globally, and that’s a fact!
Appreciation is one thing, but disparaging others is unnecessary and harmful.
It was just a motivational speech. People take things too seriously these days.
His comments were harmful and reflect poorly on Thailand’s international standing.
Thaksin’s mistake was his wording. He should clarify his intentions if he didn’t mean harm.
Clarification is key. A statement shouldn’t be allowed to harm decades of relationships.
Thaksin’s charisma is what keeps Pheu Thai afloat. He knows how to work a crowd.
True, but charisma shouldn’t excuse harmful behavior.
Agreed. Hopefully, he’ll address this for the future of the party.
The controversy might just draw more attention to Thaksin’s rallies!
Not all attention is good. This one risks alienating international allies.
That’s true. Let’s see how they handle the fallout.
Regional politics have always been a balancing act. Thaksin’s remarks just add fuel to the fire.
It’s disheartening to see leaders misuse their platform. They should set a better example.
Do you think Thaksin will apologize, or is he too proud to admit a mistake?
If Pheu Thai hopes for a future, they need to distance themselves from these controversies.
Wouldn’t that risk alienating their core supporters who still idolize him?
Freedom of speech comes with responsibility. Thaksin should remember that.
Promoting Thai beauty is fine, but belittling others? That’s not leadership material.
It’s politics. Everything gets blown out of proportion for the sake of scoring points.
Let’s not overshadow the candidate’s potential because of one man’s blunder.
Unfortunately, in politics, one statement can derail an entire campaign if not handled well.
True. Hopefully, they manage to navigate this storm.
With elections around the corner, any misstep can be costly for Pheu Thai.
I’m curious how Thaksin’s daughter, the Prime Minister, will respond to all this.
People need to focus on real issues like economic policies, not just gaffes from speeches.
Thaksin’s strategy seems to be about maintaining relevance. Controversy forces attention.
Public figures need to be aware of how their words can affect national and international relations.
It’s sad to see how one wrong statement can derail a campaign’s good efforts.
Thaksin needs to remember that kindness and respect go a long way in today’s world.
Perhaps Pheu Thai needs fresh faces rather than relying on Thaksin’s old charm.