Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was seen leaving the Criminal Court on August 19th, after attending a hearing related to a lese majeste case. Now, as the calendar flips to Tuesday, Thaksin has his sights set on Chiang Rai for a crucial visit. (Photo: Reuters)
Thaksin Shinawatra plans to assess the flooding situation in Chiang Rai, making this his first journey into the countryside since his daughter, Paetongtarn, was approved as the new Prime Minister. Thaksin confirmed his northern trip on Monday after stopping by the Pheu Thai Party headquarters, where he reportedly had lunch with Prime Minister Paetongtarn. When asked about the upcoming trip, Thaksin reassured, “I will be visiting villagers.”
The itinerary for his one-day visit is packed and purposeful. According to Matichon Online, Thaksin’s schedule includes a stop in Theung district, where he aims to distribute relief bags and engage with local community leaders. Chiang Rai, a northern province reeling from severe flood damage, was once a stronghold for Pheu Thai. However, the last two elections saw a shift as some seats were ceded to candidates from the Move Forward Party, the successor of the People’s Party.
This upcountry visit by Thaksin comes at a critical time. It marks his first such trip since Ms. Paetongtarn took on the esteemed role of Prime Minister. Interestingly, the backdrop of his visit includes a recent poll from the National Institute of Development Administration, released on Sunday. The poll reveals that many people harbor doubts about whether Ms. Paetongtarn can govern the nation independently, without the overarching influence of her father.
Needless to say, all eyes will be on Thaksin as he navigates through the flood-stricken areas of Chiang Rai, balancing political momentum and community support. The fact that he’s personally delivering relief supplies to the affected villagers speaks volumes about his ongoing engagement in the region’s well-being. Will this visit help rekindle Pheu Thai’s dwindling influence in the north, or will it merely underscore the complex dynamics between Thaksin and Paetongtarn’s leadership? Only time will tell.
The story unfolds with every step Thaksin takes on that muddy, flood-damaged ground of Chiang Rai. One thing is certain: the residents eagerly await, not just the relief bags, but perhaps a reassurance that better days are yet to come.
Thaksin visiting Chiang Rai is just a blatant PR stunt. He’s trying to manipulate people into thinking he’s still relevant.
But isn’t it a good thing that he’s bringing relief supplies to flood victims? At least he’s doing something practical.
Sure, but he wouldn’t be doing it if it didn’t serve his own agenda. It’s all about maintaining his political influence.
In politics, everyone has an agenda. At least the villagers are getting help they need.
Regardless of the motive, actions speak louder than words. The relief is much needed.
I think this shows that Thaksin still cares deeply about the country. He’s stepping up when it matters.
Are you serious? He’s a convicted criminal. This is all a façade to reassert control over Paetongtarn’s government.
Everyone deserves a second chance. His past doesn’t negate the positive impact he can have now.
Indeed. Actions like these can have a lasting impact on people’s lives. It’s better than sitting idly by.
The impact on the environment from these floods is devastating. We should be focusing on long-term solutions!
Paetongtarn’s inability to govern without her father’s influence is concerning. Nepotism ruins genuine leadership.
Nepotism or not, if Paetongtarn can govern effectively, does it really matter?
I doubt Thaksin’s visit will significantly change Pheu Thai’s position in the north. Voters are smarter now.
They might be smarter, but old loyalties die hard. Emotional connections count.
What about the Move Forward Party? Can they make a difference in Chiang Rai?
They’ve already shown they can win seats. With consistent efforts, they might challenge Pheu Thai.
All eyes are on Thaksin now. It’s like watching a dramatic soap opera unfold in real life.
Typical Thai politics! Always filled with drama.
True, but it’s the everyday people who suffer while the elites play their games.
Floods are going to keep coming. We need better infrastructure and preventive measures.
Agreed. The government needs to prioritize long-term solutions instead of temporary fixes.
Why isn’t there more focus on developing technologies to predict and mitigate flood damage?
Probably because it requires investment and political will, both of which are scarce.
Wonder if this will affect the upcoming elections. Political moves are always calculated.
Definitely. This visit is strategic. It’s about gaining favor for Pheu Thai.
But will it be enough? That’s the real question. People want real change, not just theatrics.
Only time will tell. The next few months will be revealing.
Can’t believe people still think Thaksin is a hero. Have they forgotten his past crimes?
Regardless of personal opinions about Thaksin, the country needs unity to overcome challenges like these floods.
Unity is great in theory, but hard to achieve when people are so divided.
Honestly, don’t care about politics. Just hope the villagers get the help they need.
Politics and relief work are intertwined, unfortunately. They can’t be separated.