On June 20, the ever-fiery stage of Thai politics was set ablaze once more by veteran activist Jatuporn Prompan, as he declared an open political war against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. At a press conference held amidst the historical walls of Bangkok’s Rattanakosin Hotel, Jatuporn unleashed a vehement rallying cry to a packed room of over 40 political activists, former PAD, PDRC, UDD members, academics, artists, performers, and even military veterans. United under the banner “Uniting the Power of the Land,” these formidable forces called for an immense protest at the iconic Victory Monument on June 28, demanding the Prime Minister’s immediate resignation.
The catalyst for this insurrection? A leaked audio recording that spread like wildfire across the nation, igniting feelings of betrayal and outrage. In the clip, Prime Minister Paetongtarn was reportedly engaged in an unsettling phone conversation with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, seemingly undermining the authority of Thailand’s Second Army Region commander in a conversation about border policies.
Jatuporn, with animated fervor, captured the mood of discontent. “I have never seen a prime minister sacrifice the integrity of their army commander to another nation,” he exclaimed, punctuating his message with a stark warning that the time to act was now. “This is not a moment to be torn apart by external machinations. Thai people must unite against the betrayal festering from within.” He lambasted the government for being not just “weak, but also stupid,” leaving a mark in the sand as he declared that Paetongtarn’s actions endangered national sovereignty. The accused audio clip, according to Jatuporn, was definitive proof—a “receipt” confirming what many had long suspected.
In his fervid address, Jatuporn also turned his attention to the coalition partners, cautioning them against exploiting these tumultuous times to claw for more ministerial clout. “This is not just about numbers and votes,” he emphasized, drawing from historical precedent. “Thaksin had 377 votes and wasn’t safe. How will this administration fare any better?”
As a clarion call, Jatuporn beckoned citizens of every stripe to congregate at the Victory Monument from 4 PM to 9 PM on June 28. His vivid metaphor painted a dramatic scene: “We must watch who’s steering the ship. If they aim to sell the nation downriver, we, the people, must sink that ship.”
Echoing this sentiment at the conclusion of the conference was Panthep Puapongphan, Dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University. He added fuel to the fire, stating, “The Prime Minister’s words in that clip are a blatant threat to national security. Anyone aligning with her remains a part of that threat.” The coalition of concerned citizens articulated three unyielding demands: firstly, that Prime Minister Paetongtarn must resign without delay; secondly, coalition parties are to stage a withdrawal from the current government; and thirdly, that Thai citizens must stand united in defense of national sovereignty on June 28.
With mounting tensions, the date of June 28 inches closer, promising a robust manifestation of public sentiment as citizens prepare to converge on Bangkok’s streets — perhaps heralding a pivotal moment in Thailand’s political landscape. Will this uprising bring about change? As the anticipation builds, all eyes remain fixed on how this political drama will unfold, and the impact it could reverberate through Thai society.
Wow, this situation is intense. I can’t believe the PM would have such a careless conversation.
I agree. It makes you wonder what else goes on behind closed doors.
Exactly. Transparency is key, especially in politics.
But is this audio really proof or just a tactic by Jatuporn to gain power? We should question the source.
I’m not surprised by this at all. Politics in Thailand has always been a game of power, manipulation, and betrayal.
That’s true. It’s hard to trust anyone when everyone has a hidden agenda.
I mean, politics everywhere is a dirty game. Thailand is no different. Just look at Western politics.
The protest at Victory Monument could be a turning point, but these things often fizzle out. People just want change.
People are just tired of the same old faces and politics. Maybe this time it’ll lead to something substantive.
I find Jatuporn’s fiery rhetoric a bit over the top, however, it’s hard to ignore his influence.
His style might be inflammatory, but sometimes that’s what you need to spark massive change.
Yes, his passion may energize the movement, although I fear it might alienate moderate supporters.
Isn’t it ironic that the person calling out betrayal has himself been a part of controversial activities in the past? Pot calling the kettle black.
True, but sometimes it takes an insider to expose the system’s flaws from within.
Could this protest actually lead to a resignation, or is it more likely to cause further division?
Considering the PM’s backing, I doubt a resignation will happen. More likely, it will deepen the divide.
I agree. It could just add fuel to an already volatile situation.
It’s discouraging how often leaders prioritize power over national interest. It feels like citizens are an afterthought.
Maybe it’s time for new political players in Thailand. Leaders like Paetongtarn have had their chance, and look where it’s led us.
I think this protest is necessary. The PM’s actions, as Jatuporn claims, are indeed concerning.
Protests are necessary to hold leaders accountable, but let’s hope it remains peaceful.
Media only shows what drives fervor or controversy. I wonder how much of that audio clip was taken out of context?
Panthep is right in his warnings. Aligning with such a government threatens our national security.
It seems everyone forgets the PM is just a pawn within larger political scheming. Parties are to blame as well.
It’s easy to point fingers, but if we don’t act now, when will we? Silence gives consent.
It’s sad that politicians gamble with national security for personal gains. There needs to be a shift.