Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a notable appearance in Surin on Sunday morning, where he led a grand mass ordination ceremony. His visit sparked significant attention and enthusiasm across the region.
After receiving a parole, the ex-premier journeyed to Surin, a lower northeastern province in Thailand where the Pheu Thai Party holds a minority of House seats. This political heavyweight declared his intention to start meaningful initiatives for public welfare in the near future.
Thaksin’s journey began at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok. From there, he touched down at Buri Ram Airport, located in the Satuk district of Buri Ram province. Upon arrival, he was greeted warmly by Pheu Thai’s current and former ministers, along with Surin Members of Parliament (MPs). He then ventured to the neighboring province of Surin by road.
In Surin, Thaksin made his way to Wat Suwan Wichit in Prasat district. It was here that he presided over the ritual ordination of 334 monks, held in honor of the sixth cycle birthday anniversary of His Majesty the King. During this spiritual ceremony, Thaksin expressed his plan to embark on initiatives that would deliver tangible benefits to the Thai populace across the nation after August.
Sahakan Phetnarin, the director-general of the Department of Corrections, confirmed that Thaksin’s six-month parole would conclude in August. Post-August, Thaksin would no longer be required to report to the department, marking a new chapter in his political journey.
Surin, positioned adjacent to Buri Ram, is prominently known as a political bastion of the Bhumjaithai Party. It’s a region rife with political dynamics, often playing host to significant electoral contests. Political analysts have observed that Bhumjaithai, a current member of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government, has made substantial strides in securing House seats in Surin.
In the 2011 general elections, Bhumjaithai managed to snag one out of the eight House seats available in Surin while Pheu Thai took home seven. Fast forward to 2019, the Bhumjaithai Party grabbed one seat out of seven, equalling the tally of the Palang Pracharath Party. Pheu Thai once again proved dominant, securing five seats. However, the tables turned last year when Bhumjaithai clinched five seats, leaving Pheu Thai with just three.
The shifting political landscape has added an intriguing layer to Thaksin’s visit. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s youngest daughter, now leads the Pheu Thai Party, suggesting that the Shinawatra family’s political influence is far from waning.
Thaksin’s arrival in Surin wasn’t just a ceremonial endeavor but a significant political statement. His active involvement hints at future endeavors that could reshape the political map of the region. As he gears up to embark on new public-serving projects, Thailand watches keenly, anticipating the steps of a man whose political prowess continues to command attention and respect.
In summary, Thaksin Shinawatra’s visit to Surin is not just a personal milestone but a moment that underscores the constantly evolving fabric of Thai politics. His promises of future initiatives and the keen political competition in the region are bound to keep both supporters and critics on their toes, contributing to the ever-dynamic political narrative of Thailand.
This is a classic PR stunt. Thaksin is just using this ordination for his selfish political gains.
But isn’t it good if he’s helping monks and talking about public welfare initiatives?
Welfare initiatives are just promises. Let’s wait and see if they become reality.
The guy has a history of cracking down on drugs violently. Welfare initiatives don’t fit his track record.
Can’t believe people still support Thaksin after everything.
He did help with the economy when he was PM. People’s memories aren’t that short.
At what cost? Human rights abuses shouldn’t be forgotten.
No politician is perfect, but it’s undeniable he did some good.
Thaksin’s parole is just another example of the elites protecting their own in Thailand.
Ordinations and politicians—what an odd combination. But maybe this is what the people need right now.
It seems like a distraction from real issues to me.
If it brings attention to public welfare, I’m for it.
What a joke! Thaksin should be in a cell not leading ceremonies.
He was paroled. He’s playing by the rules, love him or hate him.
I’ve heard promises of ‘public welfare’ before. Politicians rarely deliver.
Always the cynic, Angela. Some actually care about their constituents.
Experience has made me cynical. Show me real change and I’ll believe.
Jen, wasn’t his last term marred with so many controversies? Trust but verify!
It’s amazing how resilient Thaksin’s support base is. Family legacy playing a role for sure.
Thaksin making a move before elections? Classic strategy!
I doubt he can influence much anymore. His daughter’s the one in charge.
We need to focus on current issues, not past leaders.
Who cares about his parole? What matters is the future projects he is hinting at.
True, but you can’t ignore someone’s past completely.
Thaksin has great strategies. He might turn things around for Pheu Thai even now.
I’m skeptical. Politicians’ promises are rarely kept, especially in Thailand.
Who isn’t skeptical? But sometimes you have to hope for the best.
Thaksin orchestrating an ordination? Sounds fishy to me.
It might sound fishy, but it’s also very smart politically.
Smart, but manipulative. That’s my point.
I’ve never trusted Thaksin or his intentions.
Can’t we just appreciate a good deed without political undertones for once?
If his welfare initiatives are real, I hope they get implemented soon.
The ordination might be genuine, but blending it with politics is unsettling.
Seeing Thaksin back in the spotlight feels like a step backward for the country.