On August 19, 2024, the spotlight was undoubtedly on former premier Thaksin Shinawatra as he appeared at the Criminal Court in Bangkok for a scheduled hearing concerning lese majeste charges. Captured in a poignant moment by photographer Apichart Jinakul, Thaksin stood at the center of Thailand’s ongoing political drama.
In the meanwhile, the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) had been busy canvassing public opinion about Thaksin’s potential role in the government led by his youngest daughter, Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra. The results of the poll, conducted via telephone interviews with 1,310 respondents aged 18 and over from various backgrounds, painted a vivid picture of the prevailing sentiments among Thais regarding Thaksin’s influence on the new administration.
The key question burning in everyone’s mind was the likelihood of Paetongtarn running the country independently of her father’s influence. The poll responses represented a mix of skepticism and tempered optimism:
- 59.01% of respondents thought it was absolutely impossible for Paetongtarn to operate without Thaksin’s influence.
- 15.42% deemed it very unlikely.
- 14.96% found it fairly likely.
- 9.77% were very likely to believe in her autonomy.
- 0.84% didn’t know or weren’t interested in the question.
Another crucial aspect of the poll was whether Thaksin should play any role in Paetongtarn’s administration. The majority seemed to favor a more hands-off approach :
- 37.79% agreed that Thaksin should not hold any position nor run the country from “behind the curtain,” although occasional fatherly advice was acceptable.
- 28.85% said he should refrain from holding any position but could offer guidance on national matters in the shadows.
- 26.95% insisted Thaksin should neither hold any position nor provide any advice, allowing Paetongtarn to govern freely.
- 6.03% felt Thaksin should hold an official post to provide direct advice on national affairs.
- 0.38% were either unsure or uninterested.
Speculations were rife about what Thaksin’s actual role in Paetongtarn’s government would be. The respondents had their theories:
- 39.39% predicted that Thaksin would eschew any official position but offer advice from “behind the curtain.”
- 31.39% believed he would give unofficial advice as a father without any formal engagement in political matters.
- 18.70% were of the opinion that Thaksin would neither hold a position nor provide any advice, leaving Paetongtarn to govern independently.
- 9.08% thought Thaksin would take up an official post to advise on national affairs.
- 0.92% were either unsure or uninterested.
As the poll results highlight, the nation appears divided yet captivated by the unfolding political narrative. Thaksin, a controversial and influential figure, continues to evoke strong opinions. The question remains whether Paetongtarn can establish her own identity and leadership or if her father will cast a long shadow over her premiership. As Thailand watches this political family saga unfold, one thing is for sure: the nation’s interest is keen, and the stakes are high.
Paetongtarn will never be able to govern without Thaksin pulling the strings. It’s obvious from the poll results!
Actually, I believe Paetongtarn might surprise us all. Many strong leaders have risen from such shadows.
Not everyone is a strong leader just because they have a famous parent. History shows mixed results at best.
Totally agree with you @ThaiCitizen123. Thaksin’s influence is too ingrained in Thai politics.
Exactly, and the poll shows that the majority of people think the same way!
But let’s not forget, every statistic has outliers. Maybe that small percentage believing in her autonomy knows something we don’t.
We should give Paetongtarn a chance to prove herself before judging her capabilities. Democracy deserves our patience and support.
Patience isn’t always a luxury in politics. We need immediate, tangible results.
Agreed. But building a stable government takes time and we shouldn’t rush to conclusions.
Absolutely, @Lisa_Chan08. Some things are worth waiting for, and a stable, independent leader could truly benefit Thailand.
Democracy also means being honest about potential puppet governments. If Thaksin controls from the shadows, it’s not true democracy.
I’m more concerned about Thaksin’s legal issues affecting the administration. How much can Paetongtarn govern with such distractions?
Legal issues shouldn’t interfere with governance. If she’s capable, she can manage both.
True, but we can’t ignore the media circus around him. That definitely impacts the focus and effectiveness of her administration.
Unfortunately, sensationalism sells. But as a leader, she must rise above the noise.
I think it’s refreshing to see a new face in leadership. Paetongtarn might bring in some fresh ideas.
New face, same last name. Hardly refreshing if she’s just a front for Thaksin.
That’s a pretty cynical way to look at it. Sometimes new faces are what we need to kickstart real change.
Whether Thaksin stays in the background or not, Paetongtarn’s policies matter the most. We should focus on those.
Policies shaped by Thaksin, don’t forget. His influence is unmistakable.
Influenced perhaps, but she can still implement them more effectively. Give her a chance on her execution skills.
Why isn’t anyone talking about the economic implications of Thaksin’s influence? His past was filled with both triumphs and controversies.
Economic implications are huge! His policies were a mixed bag of good and bad, and we should be careful.
It’s time we move past dynastic politics in Thailand. Leaders should be chosen on merit, not legacy.
Dynastic politics exist everywhere. It’s not unique to Thailand, but yes, merit should be paramount.
Merit is a dream too far for many. The reality of politics often trumps idealism.
Why are we debating Thaksin’s influence? He isn’t in power anymore. Let’s focus on the present and future leadership.
Because his influence is still very much present! Ignoring that is naive.
Alright, but perhaps our energy should be on how Paetongtarn handles it, rather than dwelling on her father’s shadow.
The poll numbers indicating distrust in Paetongtarn’s autonomy are concerning. She needs to establish her own authority quickly.
No amount of authority will mask the strings being pulled from the shadows. The Thai public knows too well.
I wonder if Paetongtarn has any plans to address the public’s skepticism head-on?
Actions will speak louder than words in the end. We’ll see if she can truly break free from Thaksin’s influence or not.