In the bustling corridors of Thai politics, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra made headlines yet again on November 13, as he boarded a train to Prachuap Khiri Khan. Clad in charisma and commanding influence, Thaksin was on a mission to remind the ruling Pheu Thai Party of the importance of unity, even as some coalition parties played hooky from a significant cabinet meeting.
This gathering in Hua Hin district was no ordinary seminar. It was a place where political heavyweights flexed their muscles, and Thaksin, known for his unyielding spirit, took the opportunity to express his discontent. The cabinet meeting in question was set to deliberate on two crucial executive decrees—one concerning the reform of juristic person tax and the other on boosting the country’s competitiveness. However, some ministers failed to grace the occasion with their presence. This left Thaksin less than impressed.
“Where’s the ‘all for one and one for all’ spirit?” he questioned, in his trademark bluntness. “If anyone doesn’t want to be in the cabinet anymore, they should say so. Next time they skip a cabinet meeting, they should also produce a resignation letter. That should be easy.”
The absence list wasn’t pretty. Among the missing were Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, also the leader of the United Thai Nation Party; Deputy Interior Minister Songsak Thongsri from Bhumjaithai; and Deputy Agriculture Minister Akkhara Prompow from a former faction of the Palang Pracharath Party. Also missing in action were Deputy Education Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul from Bhumjaithai, and Deputy Commerce Minister Suchart Chomklin from the UTN.
On the flip side, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who helms Bhumjaithai, went so far as to cut short a doctor’s appointment after a call from the PM’s secretary-general, Prommin Lertsuriyadej. Meanwhile, other Bhumjaithai ministers opted for the more traditional leave of absence.
Despite the glaring gaps at this meeting, Pheu Thai’s Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong, who also moonlights as the tourism and sports minister, proclaimed that the coalition remained strong and committed to completing the government’s term. “Thaksin is a senior figure, and his words carry weight. Pheu Thai listens,” he reassured.
While Thaksin’s words echoed through the political landscape, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin seemed to take a more light-hearted view. He suggested that the former premier’s comments weren’t targeting Bhumjaithai specifically. “Bhumjaithai is receptive to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who is the government leader. What Thaksin mentioned regarding the absenteeism, I’m not too worked up about it,” he remarked with a diplomatic shrug.
As the wheels of Thai politics continue to turn, the unity of the ruling party stands as a beacon, albeit flickering at times. Amidst the whispers and grumbles, one thing remains clear—the intrigue and drama of Thai politics are never far from the headlines.
Thaksin’s call for unity is just a bid to reclaim power behind the curtains. It’s obvious he’s still pulling the strings!
That’s one way to see it, but his influence can’t be denied. He’s been a defining figure for decades.
Whether you like him or not, he draws attention to issues. A cabinet can’t function without full attendance.
SiamEagle, shouldn’t we recognize the good he did for the people too? It’s not all black and white.
Reform discussions are critical, and these ministers need to show up. Thaksin is right on calling them out!
Skipping meetings shows a lack of commitment to the country’s progress. It’s embarrassing for Thailand.
Do you think this absentees list would actually lead to resignations? Seems like an idle threat to me.
Sometimes threats are necessary to make people aware of the stakes. A bit of drama never hurt in politics.
It’s just politics as usual in Thailand. These maneuvers have been the norm for ages.
We have to admire Anutin’s calm. His reaction is strategic; nothing stirs better in politics than patience.
I find Anutin’s attitude passive. Sometimes direct action is better than a diplomatic shrug.
Thaksin’s emphasis on productivity reminds us why strong leadership is vital.
Leadership is subjective. Some would argue he’s more of a divisive force than anything else.
Divisive to those with power to lose. He’s managed to consistently appeal to the common citizen over the years.
How serious is Thaksin anyway? Yingluck fled, would he not do the same if things get tough?
Thaksin’s continued influence is a testament to his legacy, whether viewed positively or negatively.
People recognize leadership and credibility. His past doesn’t change the fact that he has a vision for Thailand.
Anutin’s casual response is commendable. Laughter in the face of drama often disarms opposition.
Disarms? More like ignores. Ignoring isn’t always the right strategy in serious matters.
OrangeTiger, laughter can’t solve everything. We need substantive action to prevent these absences.
Oh please, call up the doctors if you’re too sick for a meeting. How convenient for politicians to skip out.
Appointments can be important and scheduled long before these meetings. It’s not always an excuse.
True, but how often can it happen that so many have ‘commitments’? Seems suspicious.
Pheu Thai better stand firm. Otherwise, it’ll be chaos if even the leadership isn’t setting a precedent.
Chaos feeds change. Sometimes disorganization can lead to new opportunities.
Sometimes it’s overwhelming, the political games being played. But it’s all a necessary evil.
If ministers can’t even meet, how can they hope to pass meaningful legislation? Thaksin has a point.
Legislation is a long game. Meetings are just one part of the puzzle; influence is exerted in more ways than one.
Quit blaming Bhumjaithai. Let’s focus on actionable solutions rather than just pointing fingers.
Political dramas in Thailand are like a soap opera, but at what cost? It’s tiring.