Under the spotlight at the Bangkok Post Forum on a brisk November morning, Deputy Finance Minister Krisada Chinavicharana stood, poised and ready to impart his wisdom. It was the 8th of November, 2023, and the air buzzed with the anticipation of the gathered attendees. Little did they know, a political drama was quietly unfolding behind the scenes, a drama that would soon capture the attention of the nation. (Photo credit goes to the keen-eyed Nutthawat Wichieanbut for capturing the moment.)
Enter stage left, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who found himself making a hasty phone call on a Wednesday that could only be described as urgent. The subject of his call? A plea to the very same Krisada Chinavicharana, a man considering a dramatic exit from the world of finance ministry politics. “Please, think it over; sleep on it,” the Prime Minister might as well have said, in a bid to halt the resignation letter still fluttering its way to his desk.
The whispers around the water cooler suggested Mr. Krisada felt sidelined, left in the shadow of the grand stage by the newly minted Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. Imagine, a former permanent secretary, seasoned and knowledgeable, now reportedly relegated to the wings to manage the Public Debt Management Office. It sounded like a plot twist that not even Krisada had seen coming, especially considering his appointment was a strategic move by the United Thai Nation Party, a significant player in the Pheu Thai-led coalition’s chessboard.
But Mr. Krisada wasn’t alone in his sentiments of feeling somewhat diminished post-cabinet reshuffle. Picture the scene: Foreign Affairs Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, also making a quiet exit stage right, his departure underscored by a sense of loss—not over a role, not over a title, but the coveted position of deputy prime minister. Vanished, like a ship into the night.
The corridors of power were awash with speculation, intrigue, and the quiet rustle of political maneuvering. What you’re witnessing is not just the tale of two ministers navigating the choppy waters of political life. No, it’s a story of ambition, of roles assigned and reassessed, and the personal reckonings that come with public service—a drama as old as politics itself, playing out under the discerning eye of the Thai nation.
So, as the sun sets on another day in the realm of Thai politics, we’re reminded that the world of governance is ever-evolving, filled with twists and turns that could rival any theatrical production. As for Krisada Chinavicharana and Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, their next acts remain to be seen. But one thing’s for certain: the audience is watching, eagerly awaiting the next scene in this captivating political saga.
This story is a perfect illustration of how politics is more about personal ambitions than serving the people. Krisada’s and Parnpree’s situations show the cutthroat nature of political maneuvering.
I think you’re missing the point. Politics has always been about negotiation and compromise. Krisada’s situation is just him navigating through that political landscape, not about personal ambition.
Negotiation and compromise are essential, yes, but when qualified people are sidelined, it’s the public who lose out. It’s about finding a balance.
But don’t you think that sometimes changes need to be made for the greater good, even if it means reshuffling positions?
It’s sad to see professionals feeling undervalued. The talent drain from politics to the private sector is real, and stories like Krisada’s confirm it.
Agreed, but isn’t this just the nature of the beast? The private sector often offers more rewards and less public scrutiny than a political position.
Why is there no emphasis on the policies these individuals supported? Politics should be about policies, not just personalities and who feels slighted.
You’ve got a point. Personal stories grab headlines, but it’s the policies that affect everyday people. Maybe we need a shift in media focus.
Every political career has its ups and downs. Krisada and Parnpree are just going through a rough patch. They’ll recover if they’re as competent as we’re led to believe.
Competency isn’t always enough. Politics can be incredibly fickle, and sometimes, all it takes is being on the wrong side of a power struggle.
That’s the game of politics, isn’t it? A constant battle for power and influence. But, without struggle, there’s no progress.
I wonder how much of this political drama was orchestrated for public sympathy. It wouldn’t be the first time politicians played the underdog card.
That’s a cynical view, but not without merit. Public perception is a powerful tool, and politicians are well aware of how to use it to their advantage.
True, but we also can’t forget that behind the public personas, there are real people with genuine grievances and ambitions.
Let’s not forget the role of the audience in this political theatre. We, the people, are not just passive observers but active participants through our votes and voices.
In the grand scheme, will Krisada’s near exit even matter? Politicians come and go, but the system remains the same. It’s all a facade.
Maybe, but every once in a while, a politician comes along who can genuinely make a difference. The problem is they often get swallowed by the system before they can.