Thaksin Proves He Hasn’t Lost His Old Magic

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File photo courtesy: Thai Rath

 

In the midst of spirited political exchanges and forecasts, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has voiced a firm endorsement of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s enduring influence within the political arena. Reflecting on recent Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO) elections, Anutin dismissed notions suggesting Thaksin is losing his charismatic grip on Thai politics.

 

"The essence of a warrior remains constant," Anutin commented on Tuesday, asserting that underestimating Thaksin could lead to unforeseen repercussions. His remarks emerge in response to political analysts questioning Thaksin’s current sway, especially after the Pheu Thai Party's less dominant performance in the latest polls.

 

Despite Pheu Thai being led by Thaksin's daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, it didn't capture as many provinces as anticipated, prompting speculation about Thaksin's waning influence.

 

The discourse also invigorates discussions around Anutin himself, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, as a potential candidate for the next prime ministerial race.

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath

 

Buoyed by Bhumjaithai’s commendable showing in the PAO elections, some political commentators suggest Anutin has firmly positioned himself for leadership in the future. However, Anutin remains measured, emphasising his commitment to the coalition government and sidelining rivalry until the next general elections expected in 2027.

 

Anutin quickly refuted claims that Bhumjaithai’s success in the PAO elections stemmed from 'deep pockets'. "Trust and confidence," he insisted, are the currencies that garnered his party’s support, dismissing notions that monetary incentives influenced voter behaviour.

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn reflects a similar sentiment of satisfaction regarding Pheu Thai’s performance, indicating that like every election, they would evaluate their victories and losses.

 

She conveyed her father Thaksin’s pleasure with the results despite criticisms that his fervent campaigning style, which can sometimes appear aggressive, might have alienated some voters.

 

In the dynamic world of Thai politics, Thaksin remains a figure whose influence is intricately woven into the fabric of Pheu Thai's strategies and aspirations.

 

Whether his purported 'magic' endures is a subject of fervent debate, yet what remains clear is the continued impact of his legacy on Thailand's political landscape. Both allies and rivals alike acknowledge the significance of his presence, shaping the present and future contours of the political theatre, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-02-05

 

 

[smedly]

yeah, avoiding tax and running, I wish to thai people would wake up

[OneMoreFarang]

"Thaksin Proves He Hasn’t Lost His Old Magic"

 

Who comes up with these headlines?

Will we soon read: This is sponsored by the Shinawatras?

 

[ChrisY1]

Nice hair!

[Geoffggi]

All this shows is the authorities do not have the balls to reign in Thaksin & prevent his interference in Thai politics.

[JoePai]

endorsement of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra

[lordgrinz]

Yeah, don't let facts get in the way of propaganda.

 

"Thaksin’s political might questioned by PAO election tally"

 

https://world.thaipbs.or.th/detail/thaksins-political-influence-might-questioned-by-pao-election-tally/56395