On 24 April 2023, Chalerm Ubumrung and his son Wan Ubumrung electrified the crowd at a Pheu Thai election campaign rally held at the iconic Rama VIII Bridge in Bangkok. This father-son duo has been a significant force in Thai politics, making headlines once again. (Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill)
Recently, former Pheu Thai Party MP for Bangkok, Wan Ubumrung, squashed rumors that his son, Archawin Ubumrung, would be following him and his grandfather, Chalerm, in deflecting to the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP). Wan addressed these speculations directly, stating clearly on Sunday, “Some news outlets claimed that the whole Ubumrung family will leave Pheu Thai. This is not true.”
Making his point unequivocally, Wan continued, “Mr. Archawin still works as an advisor to Mr. Prasert Jantararuangtong, the Digital Economy and Society (DES) minister. I never asked him to resign from Pheu Thai like I did, and neither did his grandfather.” Amidst this political turbulence, Wan emphasized that his son is navigating his own path: “My son is a matured grown man, already 27. Let him decide his own career path. Things about the father, grandfather, and nephew should be taken separately.”
Adding clarity to the situation, Archawin himself took to Facebook on Saturday, noting, “Nothing has changed at present. I’m still doing my current job with determination.”
Meanwhile, Wan reaffirmed his political ambitions by revealing that he plans to apply for membership in the PPRP on Tuesday. His father, Chalerm, who is still seated as a list-MP for Pheu Thai, is currently awaiting the party’s decision on impeachment proceedings.
This political saga took a dramatic twist when Wan resigned from his position in the main coalition government party last week, following backlash for fraternising with a rival party during a local election in Pathum Thani. His departure has stirred the political waters, capturing the attention of both media and the public.
Wan Ubumrung is creating unnecessary drama. His son should just stick with Pheu Thai.
Why should his son be forced into a political path he doesn’t want? He’s 27, let him be.
Because loyalty to the party matters! It’s not just about individual choices.
Samantha B. has a point. Political loyalty can show stability. But JohnDoe1985 is right too, personal agency is crucial.
I find it troubling that nepotism seems to be the norm here. Why should political families have such influence?
Nepotism isn’t just a problem in Thailand; it’s everywhere. But in this case, it’s about the family’s legacy.
It’s not fair to judge all political families the same. Some actually contribute positively.
Strange how they’re emphasizing that the son isn’t leaving Pheu Thai. Seems like they’re trying to control the narrative.
Agreed. It’s all political maneuvering.
Every political move is about controlling the narrative, that’s how politics works.
Archawin seems sensible by sticking to his current job. He’s wise to not jump into these family politics.
Totally. He might actually bring some fresh perspectives if he ever decides to step up.
Let’s see if he can resist the pull of familial expectations.
Why doesn’t Chalerm just retire already? He’s been holding on to power for too long.
Some people just don’t know when to quit. Power is addicting.
Exactly. It’s time for new blood in Thai politics.
Sure, let the son choose his path. But the father and grandfather need to stop stirring the pot if they really want him to be independent.
Good observation. Independence means less familial interference.
Sometimes actions speak louder than words. They should practice what they preach.
Can the Pheu Thai party even survive this kind of internal turmoil? It’s ridiculous.
Political parties often survive worse. It’s all about how they manage the fallout.
It’ll be tough, but parties adapt.
All this seems like a distraction from the real issues affecting Thailand! Focus on policies, not family drama.
That’s politics for you. Sideshow distractions.
Absolutely. Policies are what matter most.
Wan joining the PPRP is just a strategic move to gain power. How obvious can they be?
It’s so transparent. Anyone can see through it.
Who actually cares which party Archawin joins? It’s his life, let him be.
Family in politics is a double-edged sword. It can provide support but also create unnecessary pressure.
Spot on. There’s a delicate balance.
Interesting how they frame each move as calculated and independent. Reality might be quite different.
For sure. The story they tell isn’t always the true story.
Thai politics need a serious overhaul. Too many old faces and not enough new ideas.
This entire situation just showcases how complicated politics can be when family is involved.
The whole thing feels like a soap opera!
Exactly! It’s more drama than actual politics.
It’s also worth noting that the media loves to sensationalize these stories. It sells.