Politics Thaksin Plays Power Card to Keep Paetongtarn in Place

[webfact]

In this photo released by The Government Spokesman Office, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, talks to Commander of the 2nd Army Area Lieutenant General Boonsin Padklang, left during a meeting with soldiers in Ubonratchathani province, northeast of Bangkok, Friday, June 20, 2025. (Government Spokesman Office via AP)

 

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is manoeuvring to keep his daughter Paetongtarn in the prime ministerial seat until the crucial 2026 government budget bill gets its final nod in August.

 

A partisan source revealed over the weekend that Thaksin has strategically delayed her possible resignation amidst mounting pressure linked to her controversial management of the Thai-Cambodian dispute.

 

During a discreet meeting at Thaksin's residence, the political titan informed Ruam Thai Sang Chart's leader, Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, that his daughter would not bow out before the 3.78 trillion baht (approximately 143 billion USD) budget gains parliamentary approval.

 

Despite Pirapan's insistence on Paetongtarn’s resignation, following the departure of Bhumjaithai from the coalition, Thaksin proposed her extended stay until August’s key legislative conclusion.

 

Anticipating future political shifts, Thaksin is reportedly orchestrating a new cabinet composition. This reshuffle would see the ultra-conservative Ruam Thai Sang Chart rise to the second-largest coalition spot after Pheu Thai, replacing Bhumjaithai, who left the government coalition.

 

The new cabinet is expected to fill eight ministerial vacancies in critical areas such as the interior and education sectors, distributing roles amongst Pheu Thai, Pirapan’s members, and other allies.

 

Despite the changes, a twist comes with Bhumjaithai’s leader, Newin Chidchob, offering an opening. In an unexpected suggestion, Bhumjaithai MPs could lend their votes to Ruam Thai Sang Chart’s Pirapan for the prime minister role, should Thaksin agree to Paetongtarn’s resignation.

 

This political chess game underscores Thaksin's intricate web of influence and the high stakes surrounding the finalisation of the 2026 budget.

 

The unfolding events highlight a persistent tension in Thai politics, with Thaksin's decisive influence continuing to navigate the nation's power dynamics as the August budget deadline looms.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-06-22

 

 

 

[lordgrinz]

Thaksin demands this, Thaksin demands that, Thaksin plays Power Card.......Exactly who is running the government?

[davb]

What does "ultra-conservative" mean?

[Jim Blue]

5 minutes ago, davb said:

What does "ultra-conservative" mean?

Blue blood ?

[redwood1]

This sounds like Tony has his snout deeply in the 2026 budget bill and wants to make sure his payday comes through...

[Geoffggi]

I would love to know exactly what Thaksin has over the whole on the government, everyone appears to $hit scared of upsetting him, it really is disturbing the amount control he has over legitimate government officials. None appear to have a pair !!!!

[Artisi]

2 hours ago, lordgrinz said:

Thaksin demands this, Thaksin demands that, Thaksin plays Power Card.......Exactly who is running the government?

Thaksin 

[bannork]

1 hour ago, Geoffggi said:

I would love to know exactly what Thaksin has over the whole on the government, everyone appears to $hit scared of upsetting him, it really is disturbing the amount control he has over legitimate government officials. None appear to have a pair !!!!

Do some research on why a man who was the arch enemy of the conservative elite in Thailand was allowed back. It may explain his influence.

 

 

 

[hotandsticky]

4 minutes ago, Artisi said:

Thaksin 

 

 

Thaksin rak Thaksin