In a spectacle that could only take place in the vibrant political theatre of Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a grand return. With a charismatic wave to a sea of eager faces, he stepped into the limelight at the Office of the Narcotics Control Board on an eventful Tuesday, poised to deliver a keynote address. Renowned for his charm and influence, Thaksin’s presence stirred the air like a monsoon wind, bringing both stormy controversy and fervent support in his wake. (Photo credit: Somchai Poomlard)
Not far from this unfolding drama, the Medical Council of Thailand found itself in gridlock—a bureaucratic coup de théâtre. On June 12, all eyes would be on the council as it called an urgent conclave, a gathering of its 70 board members. The stage was set amidst a backdrop of political intrigue after its disciplinary action against three doctors linked with Thaksin had been swept off the table by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin’s decisive veto.
ACM Ittaporn Kanacharoen, the council’s secretary-general, orchestrated this tense meeting, confirming that all 35 elected board members had RSVPed to the event of the century—nay, the meeting of the season. The council was scampering to garner confirmation from those appointed by position, ensuring a full house. This summit foreshadowed a showdown, with a two-thirds majority—47 votes needed—to challenge the minister’s override.
It was on May 8, a day that now resonates in metaphorical neon, that the council decided to lay down the law. Two senior doctors at the esteemed Police General Hospital faced suspension, not for maladies cured or misdiagnoses, but for allegedly embellishing Thaksin’s health status, making his ailments sound like a symphony of dire afflictions. Meanwhile, a third doctor at the Corrections Department Hospital was due a stern warning for orchestrating Thaksin’s transfer out of the prison’s medical facility with the deftness of an escape artist.
The scandal unfolded like a novella, revealing that Thaksin had nestled comfortably on the 14th floor of Police General Hospital, finding sanctuary for six months when a jail cell was prescribed. It was on this point that Somsak—a stalwart in the ruling Pheu Thai Party, a party led by Thaksin’s progeny and reigning Prime Minister Paetongtarn—intervened. His veto, heavily doused in political perfume, triggered a cacophony of criticism.
The fervor was palpable, as detractors, including legislative wags and the persistent Suriyasai Katasila, an ex-leader of the People’s Alliance for Democracy in their striking yellow shirts, decried the move as a tactical defense, a shield thrown up to safeguard Thaksin. However, Treechaca Srithada, a composed voice from the Public Health Ministry, dismissed these critics with the flick of a metaphorical flyswatter, branding them merely as vocal adversaries of Thaksin and the vibrant, energetic red-shirt movement.
As the clock ticks toward June 12, the political and cultural narrative weaves a tapestry colored by power plays and allegiances, a study in human nature wrapped in the guise of governance. The resolution of this affair promises more than just the upholding of standards; it promises to tilt the balance in a drama whose final act is yet unwritten, shimmering with potential – and oh! How the audience awaits with bated breath.
Thaksin is always at the center of controversy! Why does he always get away with everything?
Joe, he’s popular because he does have a history of appealing to the rural voters. They see him as someone who fights for the common people.
Sure, Pat, but shouldn’t the law apply to everyone the same way?
The Medical Council is really in a tough spot; they’re held hostage by politics more than ever.
Sophie, the Medical Council should stay out of politics. But that’s easier said than done when the former PM is involved.
Agreed, Larry. However, it’s unrealistic to separate medicine from politics when power and health intersect so dramatically.
Somsak’s veto wasn’t surprising at all. They’re all in bed together, the whole lot of them.
Do people really think Thaksin’s health was exaggerated? He’s not that young anymore!
True, Abby, but health can be used as a political strategy too. Always two sides.
The docs only did what was probably politically wise, keeping Thaksin off the hook. Not saying it’s right!
This whole controversy is a shame on Thailand’s political system. We need policies, not dramas!
Honestly, Thaksin being pampered in a hospital rather than a prison? What does that tell the public about justice?
It tells us that power and influence can bend the rules, Anna. Always has been like that, hasn’t it?
Anna, come on, Thaksin has done more for this country than any of the so-called clean politicians.
Am I the only one watching this like it’s reality TV? The drama is off the charts!
I doubt anything will change after the June 12 meeting. Predictable outcome.
The rot in the system is too deep. This showdown is but a drop in the ocean of corruption.
I don’t get how some people still support Thaksin after all these scandals.
Ben, some folks still cling to the hope that his policies brought some good. Remember the healthcare reforms?
Anyone who’s benefiting from the status quo will root for him no matter the scandal.
Does anyone else think Somsak’s interference makes it ripe for another coup? History repeats!
The medical community needs to stand firm and not let political influences sway their decisions.
Easier said than done, Norah. Politics is deeply tangled with every sector here.
Isn’t Thaksin trying to make a political comeback? This could be his first move.
Not sure if he can, given how divisive he is in politics. But never say never!
Is it just me or do such political dramas actually deter foreign investments in Thailand?
It does have an impact, Leah. Investors look for stability and predictability, which isn’t our forte now.
Guys, the world’s political systems are messy. Ours isn’t any different.
At the end of the day, the people must be the ones to hold politicians accountable.