Thaksin Pushes for Single-Party Rule, Faces Coalition Criticism

[webfact]

Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath

 

In a recent development raising eyebrows across the Thai political spectrum, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra called on voters to back the Pheu Thai Party exclusively. Thaksin argues that a single-party majority could fast-track government initiatives, suggesting that the current coalition governing structure is cumbersome and inefficient.

 

Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party and a crucial member of the coalition, responded critically to Thaksin's remarks.

 

Serving as the interim Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin pointed out that Thaksin, after spending 17 years living abroad, might not fully appreciate the complexities of Thailand's present-day multi-party system.

 

According to Anutin, the days of singular command reminiscent of Thaksin's era have given way to a political landscape where coalition parties, including his own, strive to swiftly implement policies whilst adhering to democratic principles.

 

Anutin emphasised that while a one-party government is feasible if a single party excels, the reality is that coalition dynamics require dialogue and negotiations among various stakeholders.

 

He acknowledged, "Who would have thought about a single-party government before Thaksin became the prime minister? Thaksin showed it could be done. But the question is how long would it last if it happened again?" This reflects on Thaksin's previous tenure when his party held significant sway.

Thaksin made his assertive claims during a campaign stop in Chiang Mai, as part of his role in assisting Pheu Thai candidates in the upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) elections.

 

He believes a decisive victory for Pheu Thai would efficiently deliver on its promises, eliminating what he perceives as delays inherent in a multi-party government. This theme is one Thaksin has been reiterating across the country as he actively campaigns for his party.

 

Despite Thaksin's criticisms, Anutin maintained that the current government functions satisfactorily, albeit at a slower pace to ensure compliance with legal standards and public scrutiny. He observed that the coalition partners are committed to mutual support, whether in correcting potential missteps or advocating for the national interest.

 

As the political debate heats up ahead of the elections, the discourse around single-party dominance versus coalition governance highlights the broader question of how effectively Thailand can balance democratic processes with efficient administrative execution. The upcoming elections may indeed serve as a litmus test for the Thai people's appetite for either path, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-02-01

 

 

[AhFarangJa]

5 minutes ago, webfact said:

strive to swiftly implement policies whilst adhering to democratic principles.

Now THAT is funny.....

[sungod]

18 minutes ago, webfact said:

Thaksin argues that a single-party majority could fast-track government initiatives,

 

I'm sure the Army could oblige

[bannork]

A leopard doesn't change its spots.

Domination- once in the mobile phone sector, and then in politics.

Thaksin's modus operandi, the only way he knows how to play. 

[connda]

Why not - one party with Teflon Tony as dictator.

It's time for Tony to either go back to playing with the grandchildren or back to prison.  Or Dubai.  They did allow him to leave the country - take the hint.

[connda]

1 hour ago, webfact said:

As the political debate heats up ahead of the elections, the discourse around single-party dominance versus coalition governance highlights the broader question of how effectively Thailand can balance democratic processes with efficient administrative execution.

I.e, Teflon Tony is calling for a "Democratic Dictatorship."  <laughs>  Dude has become a national security risk.  Those backing dictatorship may just provoke it - in the form of another military coup.  Want a dictatorship?  That's the way to get it.

[crazykopite]

He should be in prison instead he is actively in Thai politics  WHY !

[petertucker48]

One-party Dictatorship ?? !!

[mfd101]

I'm looking forward to the Move Forward mob winning an absolute majority next time. And forming government accordingly.

 

Should stave off a military coup for at least 6 months.

[Will B Good]

 

 

If Thaksin starts to paint his face orange there's going to some worried faces in Thailand.

[Richardsamui]

We can start with that after next general election... when People Party will be in charge.....

[thesetat]

With a single party rule. Thaksin will be more powerful than the king. He will control everything without any opposition. Let us hope this does not come to pass. 

[klauskunkel]

5 hours ago, webfact said:

"Who would have thought about a single-party government before Thaksin became the prime minister? Thaksin showed it could be done. But the question is how long would it last if it happened again?"

It would last until another Prayut would step in. I'm pretty sure that the appropriate General has been groomed already, just in case...

[billd766]

1 hour ago, petertucker48 said:

One-party Dictatorship ?? !!

Thais have had a lot of those over the years.

 

They are normally known as illegal military coups.

 

If there is another one it will depend on the person under the golden umbrella.

 

The King's Guards now control the military power in Bangkok, and not the normal army generals and their loyalty is not so much to the military, but elsewhere.

[John Drake]

Quickly moving to implement the Hun Sen model of permanent one part rule. Yes, Prayuth was better.