In the vibrant political landscape of Thailand, whispers of an impending shake-up have been quashed by none other than the country’s erstwhile prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra. Recently surfacing rumours implied that a cabinet reshuffle was imminent, specifically targeting the current Minister of Energy, Pirapan Salirathavibhaga. However, those whispers were swiftly and decisively dismissed. On January 5th, Thaksin stepped forward to clarify that the cabinet remains unchanged for now, aligning his statement with the minister’s own affirmations.
Pirapan himself, ever the stalwart, has refuted any alleged discord with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra or within the ruling Pheu Thai Party. He firmly attests that his efforts to sustainably reduce energy costs are not only unchecked but fully supported by the government’s framework. Addressing the looming speculations about his dismissal, Thaksin underscored a harmonious relationship, “No. We’ve talked and understood. There’s nothing wrong between us. I’ve known Pirapan for a long time. He has great determination and good understanding.” Indeed, the pair have been fervently collaborating to cut household electricity costs from around 4 baht per unit to 3.70 baht, with aspirations to descend further to 3.5 baht.
As Thaksin was engrossed in campaigning up north in Chiang Rai, an air of political camaraderie eclipsed the locality. Here, he publicly extended his support to Saluckjicht Tiyapairat, a prominent figure and past leader of the Chiang Rai Provincial Administration Organisation. Saluckjicht’s familial ties traverse deep political roots, married to Yongyuth Tiyapairat—an instrumental former House Speaker and solid political ally of Thaksin—and mother to Piyarat Tiyapairat, a current Pheu Thai MP of Chiang Rai.
Pirapan’s journey has not been without its obstacles. Previously, he encountered resistance from the United Thai Nation (UTN) Party when he spearheaded a movement to decrease energy prices—a movement that rattled energy business leaders who had vested interests. Yet, his unyielding determination and successful initiatives have resonated well with the public. Pirapan’s rapport with former PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, now serving as a privy councillor and erstwhile prime ministerial hopeful of UTN, has been a cornerstone of his political endeavors.
Before Thaksin could quell the bubbling rumours, Pirapan took a proactive stance against the dissemination of inaccurate reports portraying discord. Through a forthright Facebook declaration, he repudiated the phony narratives, underscoring the falsehoods sprouted by some media factions. “My efforts to cut energy prices succeeded because of their support,” he highlighted, drawing attention to the unwavering encouragement from figures like former PM Srettha Thavisin and the incumbent PM Paetongtarn, who stand unified under government policy. Additionally, he lauded Premier Paetongtarn’s resolve to dismantle monopolistic structures.
In another pivot of solidarity, UTN Secretary General Akanat Promphan reinforced camaraderie by posting a photo alongside Pirapan. These visual affirmations are potent reminders of the Pheu Thai Party’s support and the duo’s emblematic connection to former PM Prayut Chan-o-cha.
On a broader note, political tensions are poised to escalate through the year, as speculated by ex-red shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan. He’s forewarned of potential machinations by the ultimate power broker, Thaksin, who may contemplate Pirapan’s replacement due to perceived rifts within the UTN. Nonetheless, Jatuporn admits that opportunities remain for resolution within the party.
As the government forges ahead with its ambitious agenda to draw down monopolies, their efforts will undeniably encounter towering challenges. These battles test the resilience of Thailand’s administrative frameworks against entrenched and formidable influences. Time indeed will reveal if determination can prevail against the machinations of power and influence in the Land of Smiles.
I’m surprised Thaksin is still involved in this kind of political drama. Isn’t it time for new leaders to take charge?
Thaksin has always been a significant figure in Thai politics. His influence isn’t something you can easily dismiss.
I get that, but doesn’t it create a political bottleneck, hindering progress?
It’s all about loyalty and history in Thai politics, though. Changing that isn’t easy.
I’m more worried about this power monopoly stuff. Isn’t this the same story with different characters? When will energy prices really drop?
Good point. Politicians always promise change, but it rarely translates into real benefits for the public.
Exactly! We hear the same promises every election cycle.
Pirapan seems like he’s genuinely trying to make a difference with energy costs. Why doesn’t everyone support that?
It’s politics. There are always hidden agendas and interests that influence decisions.
True, but shouldn’t the focus be on the common good?
I remember when Thaksin was ousted. It’s almost ironic he’s back here denying rumors instead of leading officially.
Politics is about influence, not just titles. He’s still powerful behind the scenes.
Isn’t it just crazy how media can stir up so much drama without solid evidence?
Sure, but Pirapan’s using social media to fight back, which is kind of smart. He’s fighting fire with fire.
Social media has become a tool many politicians use to reach their audiences and combat false narratives.
I wonder if Thaksin will ever officially return to politics or remain a kingmaker behind the scenes.
I doubt it. He seems to have more power without a formal position.
Interesting how Thaksin mentions nothing wrong between him and Pirapan but the opposition keeps insisting. Is it just jealousy?
The opposition has its reasons. Maybe it’s just a political tactic to destabilize.
I feel like the energy cost issue is a never-ending saga. Are we even close to real change?
Progress takes time. But yes, it does seem they’re dragging their feet.
Can someone explain why former leaders always stay so connected with the present government? Isn’t there supposed to be a clean break?
Clean breaks are rare in politics, especially in places where personal and political histories are deeply intertwined.
If Pirapan is really doing good work, shouldn’t Thaksin endorse more publicly and silence critics?
That might backfire. Sometimes open endorsements can make things worse due to the political climate.