Thaksin Shinawatra, tirelessly supporting his family, held the hand of his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra just moments before she received the royal endorsement to become Thailand’s new prime minister. This touching moment took place at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters in the bustling city of Bangkok on August 18. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)
In the midst of what should be a celebratory moment, the head of Pheu Thai Party MPs, Wisuth Chainarun, found himself addressing a curious controversy. A critic’s request for the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party, alleging undue influence by the former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, has been making waves. Wisuth Chainarun, with unwavering confidence, made it clear that these allegations are both misinformed and erroneous.
In his statement on Monday, Mr. Wisuth revealed he was aware that someone approached the Election Commission to request Pheu Thai’s dissolution via the Constitutional Court. The complaint suggests that Thaksin, while not being a member of the party, has been dominating its decisions, particularly influencing the selection of its prime ministerial candidate. But Mr. Wisuth, with a seasoned politician’s demeanor, refuted these claims with facts.
“Domination implies the party unconditionally accepting and following orders,” Mr. Wisuth explained. “While it was indeed speculated that Thaksin had initially recommended Chaikasem Nitisiri for the prime ministerial position, Pheu Thai MPs ultimately decided to nominate the party leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra.” It is worth noting that Paetongtarn, Thaksin’s youngest child, turned 38 just days later on August 21, adding a personal twist to this political saga.
Mr. Wisuth continued, “I have never seen Thaksin issuing directives to the party. Whenever he attended party meetings, he refrained from giving orders. In interviews, he merely shares his personal opinions as an experienced former prime minister. Whether the party decides to heed his advice is an entirely different matter.”
Meanwhile, Paetongtarn, adopting a dignified silence, chose not to answer reporters’ questions when she arrived at the Shinawatra Tower 3, the vibrant nerve center of the party headquarters, on Monday morning. Her stoic presence underscored her focus and determination in a politically charged environment.
Insights emerged revealing that an anonymous individual submitted the request for the party’s dissolution to the Election Commission on August 19. The accusation pointed to the Organic Act on Political Parties, which prohibits non-members from exerting control, dominance, or issuing instructions that render the party or its members directly or indirectly dependent on them.
This dynamic tale of political intrigue and family allegiance continues to unravel, capturing the attention of both nationals and internationals alike. As Paetongtarn Shinawatra steps into her role as prime minister, the Pheu Thai Party remains at the forefront of Thailand’s political landscape, navigating challenges with resilience and poise.
This is ridiculous! It’s obvious that Thaksin is still pulling the strings from behind the scenes. How can they let his daughter become PM without seeing the clear conflict of interest?
That’s just conspiracy talk. Paetongtarn is her own person; she’s been in politics for years. Why shouldn’t she be PM if she’s the best candidate?
People need to separate Thaksin’s past from Paetongtarn’s capabilities. It’s unfair to assume she’s a puppet just because of her father’s history.
I’m not convinced. The timing, the influence, it’s all too coincidental. They should investigate further before handing her the reins.
It’s the same old story with the Shinawatras. This family has been mired in controversy for decades. It’s time Thailand looks beyond this dynasty.
Let’s give Paetongtarn a chance. Women in power are still rare in many parts of the world, and she might bring a fresh perspective.
Gender shouldn’t be the main qualification for prime minister. Competence and integrity should. Does she have enough of those?
Agreed Grace! Besides, she’s been in politics long enough to prove her worth.
The critics are just afraid of change. New leadership could mean new opportunities and improvements for the country.
It’s funny how they say Thaksin never gave orders directly. But everyone in the party knows his ‘opinions’ are as good as orders.
Can we stop pretending that any political party in the world is completely free of powerful influencers behind the scenes? It’s naive.
True, but there’s a difference between influence and dictation. Proper checks and balances are necessary.
Fair point, Ellie. At least let’s see how she performs before jumping to conclusions.
The Shinawatra family has done more good than harm for this country. Critics just need to accept that.
Are you kidding? Corruption and power abuse. That’s all people remember them for.
Every government has its flaws. But the Shinawatras gave us significant economic growth. Let’s not forget that.
This just seems like a strategic move to consolidate power within the family. A democracy shouldn’t work like a monarchy.
If the people support her, is it really a problem? Isn’t that what democracy is about?
Paetongtarn becoming PM is the best thing for Thailand! Long live the Shinawatra legacy!
Blind loyalty isn’t good for any country. Seriously, think about the consequences if this goes wrong.
We’ve seen worse. Give her a chance before passing judgment.
What do you think will happen next? More controversy or actual progress?
Sadly, probably more controversy. The shadow of Thaksin looms too large over her.
I’m just glad to see a young leader taking charge. Maybe she’ll relate better to today’s issues.
Fingers crossed! We definitely need leaders who understand and address today’s challenges.
Pheu Thai Party made the right decision. She’s educated, experienced, and driven.
Absolutely. Qualifications over family history!
Doesn’t anyone care about the accusations of violating the Organic Act on Political Parties? This could invalidate her position entirely.
If those accusations are substantiated, it could be a problem. But so far, they’re just that—accusations.
To be fair, Paetongtarn has kept a dignified silence amid all this noise. That says something about her character.
Or maybe she’s just avoiding the tough questions. Silence isn’t always golden.
Thailand’s political arena has always been chaotic. This is just the latest saga.