PM Paetongtarn Balances Family Time Amidst Farmers' Outcry

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Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has found herself at the centre of a heated debate following her appearance with her children at a protest led by farmers at Government House. The farmers from 19 provinces were expressing frustration over the government's sluggish efforts in dealing with the blackchin tilapia, a fish species wreaking havoc on local ecosystems.

 

On Tuesday, March 18th, the farmers made their voices heard by dumping truckloads of tilapia near the fence of Government House, signalling their dissatisfaction with the government's response to this ecological crisis. Critics were quick to question the prime minister’s priorities after images emerged of her with her young ones during this tense protest.

 

Undaunted by the criticism, the 38-year-old prime minister has spoken out, defending her actions. She assures the public that the Fisheries Department is actively engaged in addressing the invasive species issue. Paetongtarn rebuffs any suggestion that her presence with her children detracts from her duties.

 

“Being close to my children doesn’t interfere with my work,” she stated on March 19. “It’s about being able to multitask. Engaging in one activity doesn’t preclude involvement in another.”

 

 

 

Married to Pitaka Suksawat, Paetongtarn is a mother to a four-year-old daughter, Thitara, and a son, Phrutthasin, who approaches his second birthday on May 1. While some perceive her appearance with her children as a lack of sensitivity to the farmers' plight, Paetongtarn remains resolute, emphasising her capacity to integrate her personal and professional lives as a core part of her leadership.

 

The protest has illuminated a growing sense of frustration among farmers who contend that government measures to combat the blackchin tilapia have been both tardy and inadequate. Whilst the prime minister continues to focus on her governing responsibilities, she has pledged to take meaningful steps to resolve these pressing concerns, ensuring the livelihoods of the farming communities.

 

Amidst the escalating pressure, Prime Minister Paetongtarn, in a display of resilience, underscores her commitment to navigating the complex roles of leadership and motherhood, asserting that these dual responsibilities are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary facets of her approach to governance. As she stands firm, the nation watches keenly for tangible solutions and reassurances from its leader reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2025-03-20