Thaksin Dodges Garbage Attack During Campaign in Thailand

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Picture courtesy: Thai Rath

 

In an unexpected twist to a political rally in Maha Sarakham, northeastern Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra found himself at the centre of an unusual protest when a woman hurled a bag of garbage in his direction. The incident took place during a Pheu Thai party campaign event, where Thaksin was delivering an enthusiastic speech about the government's plans for local development.

 

The woman, known as Auntie Oun, managed to throw the plastic bag close to Thaksin as he stood on stage in Payakhapum Pisai district. Surrounded by party members and candidates, including those vying for provincial administration positions, Thaksin remained unfazed by the harmless act of defiance. Police quickly intervened, bringing the woman forward, but Thaksin opted not to press charges against her.

 

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath

 

Auntie Oun, a food vendor and former Red Shirt activist, expressed her frustration with the situation. She alleged that a canvasser had promised her 200 Thai Baht (approximately £4.50) to attend the rally but received nothing due to what she claimed was an over-recruitment of supporters at the event.

 

Historically, Red Shirt activists, largely from Thailand's Isaan region, have supported Thaksin in the wake of his ousting in a 2006 coup. The movement reached a tragic climax in May 2010 when government troops violently suppressed protests, resulting in nearly 100 deaths and numerous injuries.

Discontent simmered further after the 2023 elections when Thaksin allegedly brokered a Pheu Thai-led coalition with parties tied to the 2014 coup junta, such as the Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart. Many former Red Shirts felt let down by this political manoeuvre, given that his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, was ousted from power under similar circumstances.

 

This unique protest during the Maha Sarakham rally underscores the complex and often turbulent political landscape in Thailand.

 

Thaksin, known for his robust political strategies and enduring influence, remains a polarising figure, capable of both significant support and profound protest. As the country gears up for upcoming elections, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated emotions and divisions that continue to influence Thai politics.

 

While Thaksin's political future - and indeed the future of the Pheu Thai party's governance ambitions - remains uncertain, the incident with Auntie Oun and the garbage bag is a telling reflection of the unpredictable nature of political sentiment in Thailand's enduring democratic journey, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2025-01-21