In a display of jubilation and political fervor, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra exchanged a heartfelt wai with Sarawut Pethpanomporn during a celebratory rally on November 13, 2024, in the vibrant province of Udon Thani. The photograph, that captured this poignant moment, quickly made waves across social media, thanks to Sarawut’s Facebook account.
Thaksin, a prominent figure with an undeniable presence in Thailand’s political landscape, reached out to congratulate Sarawut Pethpanomporn on his momentous victory in the fiercely contested provincial administrative organisation chairman election. The win, seasoned with political drama and staunch support from Pheu Thai, resonated with excitement as it solidified Thaksin’s enduring influence in the region.
On the Sunday night of the election, Thaksin, unable to resist the urge to directly share in the triumph, made a video call to Mr. Sarawut, who was glued to the nail-biting ballot count alongside fervent Pheu Thai supporters. With each vote tallied, it was not just Mr. Sarawut’s future that hung in the balance; it was a litmus test for the resiliency of Thaksin’s legacy and political network in Udon Thani.
Having just emerged victorious with a resounding 327,487 votes, Mr. Sarawut outpaced his rival, Kanisorn Khurirang from the People’s Party, who garnered 268,675 votes as per unofficial results. The victory was not just a political win but an act of redemption for Mr. Sarawut, coming on the heels of a disappointing loss in the general election to Nattapong Pipatchaisiri from the Move Forward Party. One could almost taste the sweetness of his revenge as he reclaimed what many considered his rightful place in Udon Thani’s political hierarchy.
Historically, Udon Thani has been seen as the beating heart of the red-shirt movement in Thailand’s northeast, a fortress previously dominated by Pheu Thai until the political tide changed in the last general election. The previous ballot boxes had gifted Pheu Thai seven out of ten seats, with the Move Forward Party snatching one and Thai Sang Thai clutching two. But this election was different; it was about relighting the fire that had dimmed ever so slightly.
In his buoyant video call message, Thaksin, with the air of a seasoned political maestro orchestrating his ensemble, declared, “I’m back to get Udon Thani votes back.” His voice crackled with determination as he urged his loyalists to maintain the political momentum, fueling the engine of their campaign machinery as they raced toward future general elections. The message was clear: the fight was far from over, and the story was just getting more interesting.
As the dust begins to settle in Udon Thani, one thing is certain—a relentless political narrative is unfolding, with Thaksin and his allies poised at its helm. As colorful as the Thai festival of lights, this victory illuminates the path ahead for Pheu Thai, filled with challenges and triumphs waiting just beyond the horizon.
Thaksin’s influence is like a ghost haunting the political corridors of Thailand. Sarawut’s win just proves that nothing much has changed.
You can’t deny his impact, but it’s more like a phoenix rising from the ashes. He’s clearly still beloved by many!
Beloved or feared? There’s a thin line when it comes to political loyalty in Thailand.
Politics is always about power, not love or fear.
I think Sarawut’s victory is a clear sign of the people’s choice in Udon Thani! It’s about time someone represented us properly.
Can’t really celebrate a win that stems from old political ties, can we? It’s the same old, same old.
Sometimes tradition works, Josephine. Attempting something new has risks, and we might not be ready for that!
True, but isn’t it time we start taking those risks for real change?
I’m impressed by how much Thaksin’s influence still shapes outcomes in Thailand. It’s like the man never left!
It’s not just his influence; it’s a reflection of public sentiment that still leans towards Pheu Thai.
True, but I wonder how long this sentiment will hold.
The numbers say it all—Sarawut’s victory isn’t as big as they make it sound. The opposition still got a substantial vote.
Yes, but being close doesn’t count in politics. Winning is winning.
Looks like the red-shirt movement is coming back with a vengeance! Hope this time it’s more peaceful.
Agreed! But history shows that political tensions can easily flare up in these regions.
That’s my worry too. Peace should be our priority.
The election was more about Pheu Thai vs. Move Forward than Sarawut himself. It’s a broader political chess game.
Exactly. Personal victories in politics are rarely about the person.
Why is it that the rural areas are so crazy about Thaksin? Maybe they just need more economic opportunities.
His policies always favored the rural population; they have more trust in him.
Celebrating Sarawut’s revenge seems petty; politics should rise above personal vendettas.
I’m just happy to see someone standing up for Udon Thani again. Let’s focus on what he can do for the community!
Wouldn’t it be amazing if younger politicians stepped up more? They could bring fresh ideas to Thailand’s political landscape.
Yes, but younger politicians need guidance, and that’s where seasoned leaders like Thaksin play a role.
Manifesting a political comeback through elections doesn’t change the past controversies associated with Thaksin.
This election definitely stirs the pot for the next general election. It’ll be interesting to see where the chips fall!
Absolutely! The future political scene is unpredictable but exciting.
Expect the unexpected!
Sarawut redeemed himself after his general election loss. Bouncing back is always a quality to admire!
True, it shows resilience and determination.
Hope Sarawut uses this victory to address local issues instead of just aligning with Thaksin’s agenda.
How ironic that Thaksin, in exile, still wields this much influence. Makes you wonder about the state of democracy in Thailand.