Thaksin Denies Role in Anti-Coup Legislation Moves

[webfact]

 

FILE photo courtesy: Facebook Pheu Thai

 

In a fresh wave of political speculation, Thaksin Shinawatra, often regarded as the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, has firmly denied orchestrating any legislative push aimed at curbing military influence or precluding future coups.

 

Speaking against recent narratives, Thaksin clarified that he and his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, are personally dismayed by suggestions that he was behind such moves.

 

Thaksin's refutation comes amidst rumours suggesting he instructed party members to propose legislation that would effectively tether military leadership to the whims of the elected government.

 

However, sources within the party revealed this weekend that Thaksin has assured his followers that no such directive came from him. Instead, he has instructed Pheu Thai MP Prayut Siripanich, who was advocating for the bill, to stall its progression indefinitely, keeping it off the parliamentary agenda.

 

Thaksin, himself a victim of a coup in 2006, expressed his astonishment at being linked to the controversial legal draft. This proposed legislation reportedly advocates for military personnel to refuse orders from superiors contemplating undemocratic overthrows, offering them immunity from disciplinary or criminal repercussions.

 

The draft also purportedly aims to reassign control of the Defence Council, suggesting an elected prime minister should serve as chair, replacing the traditional role of the Defence Minister.

Furthermore, it would grant the civilian cabinet the authority to sanction annual military promotions, potentially curbing arbitrary power consolidations through nepotistic practices among army generals, navy admirals, and air marshals.

 

While the idea of such legislative measures might appear progressive to some, the implications of these reports have unfurled new political tension as they suggest a drive to alter the military's long-standing autonomy.

 

Thaksin's categorical denial and the shelving of the bill underscore the delicate balance between Thailand's civilian government and its powerful military.

 

As rumours swirl and political manoeuvrings persist, one thing remains clear: Thaksin's influence, even from behind the scenes, continues to stir significant interest and reaction across the political spectrum.

 

His latest statements might pacify concerns about direct legislative intervention, but the dialogue about military oversight remains a potent subject in Thai political discourse, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2024-12-16

 

 

[hotchilli]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

In a fresh wave of political speculation, Thaksin Shinawatra, often regarded as the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, has firmly denied orchestrating any legislative push aimed at curbing military influence or precluding future coups

Everyone knows he's pulling the strings from the back-seat... Paetongkarn is just a puppet