Pheu Thai’s dynamic leader, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, held court with reporters upon her arrival at the party’s bustling headquarters in Bangkok on March 26. The hot topic? The recent drama surrounding former Bangkok MP Wan Ubamrung and his unexpected resignation. As Paetongtarn faced the media, she maintained an air of sophistication, ensuring everyone understood where the party stood.
At the heart of the issue was Wan’s unsanctioned meeting with Pol Lt Gen Kamronwit Toopkrajang during the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chairman election in Pathum Thani on June 30. Kamronwit, representing the Khon Rak Pathum (Love Pathum) group, was the frontrunner but ended up losing to Pheu Thai’s own candidate, Charn Phuangphet, by a razor-thin margin of fewer than 2,000 votes.
As the polls closed and the ballots were counted, Wan decided to catch up with his old family friend Kamronwit. Harmless enough, right? Not quite. His choice to engage with someone from the rival camp made waves within the party, prompting a summons by Paetongtarn herself for a clarifying chat on July 9.
During their meeting, Wan stood his ground, firmly believing he had done nothing wrong. He pointed out that Kamronwit had historic ties with Thaksin Shinawatra, a revered figure within Pheu Thai. Besides, the meeting took place after the votes were in, having no impact on the result. Despite this, Wan felt the party’s response suggested they no longer saw him as an asset, leading him to step away from Pheu Thai.
In her usual candid style, Paetongtarn expressed her pleasure in meeting Wan and emphasized that the interaction wasn’t meant to be dramatic. “I addressed the matter openly, a crucial step as a leader,” she explained. Joining her in the meeting was the vigilant party secretary-general Sorawong Thienthong.
She also clarified, “I harbor no ill will towards Mr. Wan. Our conversation was more about clearing the air than creating a scene. I genuinely wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
The Pheu Thai leader didn’t stop there. She hinted at an upcoming dialogue with Worachai Hema, a significant red-shirt leader and adviser to Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. It seems Mr. Worachai was less than pleased with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s frequent provincial trips, publicly criticizing them on July 6. Paetongtarn plans to iron out these wrinkles, showcasing her commitment to unity within the party’s ranks.
Through these challenges, Paetongtarn Shinawatra continues to prove why she’s a formidable force in Thai politics. Her ability to navigate internal disagreements with grace, while maintaining focus on the bigger picture, keeps Pheu Thai resilient and poised for future successes.
Paetongtarn is clearly trying to keep the party together, but it feels like she’s just sweeping issues under the rug.
That’s a bit harsh. Addressing the problems directly shows she’s taking leadership seriously.
Addressing problems or downplaying them? There’s a thin line.
Leadership is about tough decisions, not making everyone happy.
Wan’s meeting was AFTER the election. Making a big deal out of it is just petty politics.
True, but optics matter. It looked bad for the party.
Optics or not, loyalty within the party should be tested by actions that matter, not friendly meetings.
Paetongtarn’s handling of internal conflict reminds me of Thaksin’s way of doing things. Not sure if that’s good or bad.
This is typical political drama. Pheu Thai will weather it, just like always.
Predictable maybe, but each scandal chips away at their credibility.
Why does everything in Thai politics have to be so complicated? Can’t leaders just be straightforward?
Wan resigned because he felt undervalued. That’s a clear sign there’s deeper issues within Pheu Thai.
True, feeling undervalued can ruin any workplace, politics notwithstanding.
Or he just didn’t have the thick skin needed for politics. It’s not for everyone.
What about Worachai Hema? Why hasn’t Pheu Thai addressed his issues with Srettha’s trips?
Paetongtarn mentioned she would talk to him, so let’s see what happens.
It just shows there are numerous cracks within the party. One more scandal, and it might implode.
It’s impressive how Paetongtarn is handling criticism, both internally and externally.
Impressive? It’s more like she’s just doing damage control.
People need to cut Paetongtarn some slack. Leading a party is no easy feat, especially with so many internal rifts.
Wan’s departure leaves a gap. I wonder who will fill in his shoes?
Probably another loyalist. Pheu Thai can’t afford any more surprises.
Well, no party is devoid of issues. As long as Pheu Thai remains focused on their goals, these hiccups won’t matter much.
If they keep getting distracted by drama, their goals will get sidelined.
Pheu Thai needs a clear plan to handle dissent within the party. Otherwise, they’ll keep losing key figures like Wan.
Paetongtarn facing these challenges head-on is what real leadership looks like.
But is she facing them head-on or just putting on a good show?
It’s easy to criticize from the outside. Give Paetongtarn a break.
The media loves to blow these stories out of proportion.
I think Wan’s resignation is more than what meets the eye. Could be internal politics at play.
Paetongtarn’s diplomatic approach is refreshing. Hope it helps in reuniting Pheu Thai.