Problem With Yingluck As PM Candidate Is Her Brother Thaksin Loves Her

[webfact]

ANALYSIS

Problem with Yingluck as PM candidate is her brother loves her

By Tulsathit Taptim

The Nation

Whether or not Thaksin Shinawatra will risk his beloved youngest sister Yingluck in politics has become a fascinating story, not least because it is a rare Thai political dilemma with real human elements.

While her possible nomination as Pheu Thai's candidate to be prime minister may be good for the party, as she could romanticise the election campaign, the idea has its downside. She may end up being a sacrificial lamb.

Yingluck's increasing presence in news headlines has to do with the fact that Mingkwan Saengsuwan faces the same fate as Yongyuth Wichaidit. Thaksin has tried and tested Mingkwan but is not satisfied. Last week's messages from the man in exile were that the censure is over, and so is Mingkwan's status as challenger to Abhisit Vejjajiva's chief executive title.

Thaksin stopped short of saying Yingluck was now his first choice. Party sources also disputed news reports yesterday that Thaksin had given a green light for her to be put on top of Pheu Thai's party list to herald her as prime ministerial contender. Thaksin did meet Yingluck and other key members of the Shinawatra clan overseas days ago, but he was far from making a final decision on who the opposition party would sell as PM candidate, the sources said.

Analysts believe Thaksin is unlikely to subject Yingluck to the turbulence of Thai politics unless he is convinced that Pheu Thai will win the election by a landslide, perhaps enough to form a single-party government. This means pre-election surveys can play a big role in determining whom he finally picks as Abhisit's challenger.

When it comes to Yingluck, Thaksin wants to take the least gamble. The blood ties are certain to turn her into a major political target. Her virtual nomination can be interpreted as his malicious motive to whitewash himself legally and possibly get back seized assets. She will be attacked as his nominee and political rivals will leave no stone unturned in scrutinising her business interests and connections. Reconciliation efforts, already fragile, may give way to renewed cut-throat politics.

On the other hand, Yingluck is a person who could keep the shaky Pheu Thai together. Her nomination would signal intent strong enough to make potential defectors change their minds or at least think twice. Uncertain as Pheu Thai's future is, Yingluck's arrival would ensure that financial support would not be an issue. Thaksin would never leave his darling sister out in the cold.

And with the yellow shirts much weaker now, Yingluck could be spared the political tumult that befell Thaksin, Samak Sundaravej and Somchai Wongsawat. She could even invigorate Pheu Thai's campaign using her status as the potential first female PM of Thailand. Moreover, at 48 Abhisit remains politically young but even he is four years older than Yingluck, who can also match him for looks. Last but not least, with this election being a real make or break, who would you trust to take care of major things if not your dear sister?

If Thaksin's love and concern for this sister override his self-interest, he will turn to lesser choices. Names like Bannapot Damapong, brother of Thaksin's ex-wife Pojaman, and Boonklee Plangsiri, former top Shin Corp executive, have been floated.

Both Bannapot and Boonklee have been more or less embroiled in controversial business dealings by Thaksin, so their nominations carry no less a risk than Yingluck. Then again, if Thaksin was to pick one from his inner circle as PM candidate, there is no-one who is not controversial.

Political decisions are not always easy, Thaksin must have learned. When "the other hat" is that of a big brother, they can be twice as difficult. Talk about real conflict of interest.

-- The Nation 2011-04-12

[rakman]

I have no criticism one way or another, but isn't is strange that there are so many people related to Thaksin running around Thai politics? Is politics in Thailand a family affair? :jap:

[zzaa09]

I have no criticism one way or another, but isn't is strange that there are so many people related to Thaksin running around Thai politics? Is politics in Thailand a family affair? :jap:

Amusing. Wouldn't she put a crimp in the system if she gathers real popularity?

[SomTumTiger]

That Thaksin loves anyone more than he loves money and power is an absolute fallacy. He has no problem throwing relatives under the bus, to serve his agenda. That the do it willingly speaks to their love of Thaksin's money, as well.

[rakman]

I have no criticism one way or another, but isn't is strange that there are so many people related to Thaksin running around Thai politics? Is politics in Thailand a family affair? :jap:

Amusing. Wouldn't she put a crimp in the system if she gathers real popularity?

Even more amusing if she's independent, honest (something that politicians in general lack, worldwide) and can do good for Thailand.

[virtualtraveller]

Thaksin went ahead and divorced his own wife of 20+ years to pursue his comeback wholeheartedly. He's putting his sister up to an enormous task. He might have a cock-eyed ambition regarding his chances of getting whitewashed, but it's not that easy and the pressure will be on Yingluck to perform miracles. Even if they do pull it out of the hat, I doubt the Bangkok public will accept it, she'll face a similar standoff to that of Somchai.

She's attractive, a fresh unsullied face in politics, perhaps inexperienced but wholly unsuitable for the dirty job that her brother has in mind for her. Does she realise that bringing back Thaksin to Thailand without any accountability is going to be a very traumatic experience for the whole country with her in the centre of it all. Just ask Abhisit what a stressful job this is.

[zzaa09]

I have no criticism one way or another, but isn't is strange that there are so many people related to Thaksin running around Thai politics? Is politics in Thailand a family affair? :jap:

Amusing. Wouldn't she put a crimp in the system if she gathers real popularity?

Even more amusing if she's independent, honest (something that politicians in general lack, worldwide) and can do good for Thailand.

Chances are, it's just part of the greater show.

[Ricardo]

I wonder what her family-member, former-PM Somchai would advise her, having himself also been used as a nominee-leader in this way, and appeared not to enjoy the experience very much.

On the one hand, good that PTP might be led by into the election by a younger person, rather than one of the political-dinosaurs who still abound, on the other hand there is the problem that her family-name puts off many voters, as well as enthusing many more. And would the regional feudal-leaders who control TRT/PPP/PTP's factions cooperate with a woman ?

Some posters will hold their noses, at the nepotism & lack-of-democracy implied by the decision being down to just one man, since they agree that the party will in-any-case win an overwhelming victory, others may throw mud because they feel she will be a glove-puppet for her wily brother overseas. But as former-PM Samak showed, party-leaders once-elected can show disturbing signs of independence, it would surely be more-hurtful for DL to have to remove a family-member if that happens ?

Perhaps Yingluck might ask her mother for advice ?

[swillowbee]

... curious to know if there is a word in Thai for "oligarch", and does it's meaning connote something good, or something bad.

[Crushdepth]

Nepotism...got to love it. Treating the country like its a family-owned noodle shop. Maybe we should change the name to "Thaksinland" or "Shinapore" and sign over our bank accounts.

Get it over with quickly.

Edited April 12, 2011 by Crushdepth

[animatic]

I wonder what her family-member, former-PM Somchai would advise her, having himself also been used as a nominee-leader in this way, and appeared not to enjoy the experience very much.

On the one hand, good that PTP might be led by into the election by a younger person, rather than one of the political-dinosaurs who still abound, on the other hand there is the problem that her family-name puts off many voters, as well as enthusing many more. And would the regional feudal-leaders who control TRT/PPP/PTP's factions cooperate with a woman ?

Some posters will hold their noses, at the nepotism & lack-of-democracy implied by the decision being down to just one man, since they agree that the party will in-any-case win an overwhelming victory, others may throw mud because they feel she will be a glove-puppet for her wily brother overseas. But as former-PM Samak showed, party-leaders once-elected can show disturbing signs of independence, it would surely be more-hurtful for DL to have to remove a family-member if that happens ?

Perhaps Yingluck might ask her mother for advice ?

Mother: Dear daughter, run like hell. NOW!

[zzaa09]

... curious to know if there is a word in Thai for "oligarch", and does it's meaning connote something good, or something bad.

Neither good or bad. It just is.

[DP25]

Is politics in Thailand a family affair? :jap:

Sometimes, in places it's a feudal system that controls seats for generations and passes it down through the family

[givenall]

That Thaksin loves anyone more than he loves money and power is an absolute fallacy. He has no problem throwing relatives under the bus, to serve his agenda. That the do it willingly speaks to their love of Thaksin's money, as well.

DON'T FORGET FRIENDS TOO

[animatic]

That Thaksin loves anyone more than he loves money and power is an absolute fallacy. He has no problem throwing relatives under the bus, to serve his agenda. That the do it willingly speaks to their love of Thaksin's money, as well.

DON'T FORGET FRIENDS TOO

His history is littered with anyone, regardless of status, who no longer is useful to Thaksins aims, being thrown under the bus.

It seems even his childrens mother is now at odds with the family enterprise via his little sisters/proxies.

Have her taps been closed or slowed to aid the big push for power? Or is she now afraid this latest campaign for power will negatively affect her fortunes in the long run and those of the kids, and he is totally ignoring her?

Very medieval actually, like the french and english kings in 1200s. In a word : Feudal.

Edited April 12, 2011 by animatic

[hyperdimension]

Where is the evidence that Thaksin actually "loves her"? Is it merely an assumption by the writer of the article?

[webfact]

Former PM to Select Pheu Thai's Candidate for Premier Post

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has prepared candidates for the opposition Pheu Thai Party for the upcoming election.

He will give the final decision on who should be the party's premier candidate.

A source from the Pheu Thai Party has announced the progress of their candidate selection for the upcoming election.

The party is now waiting for a decision from the sister of the former premier, Yingluck Shinawatra as to whether she will run for premier.

If Yingluck turns down the candidacy, the party is expected to field Bannapot Damapong, the brother of Thaksin's former wife.

However, if Yingluck decides to run for prime minister, Bannapot will be given a lesser post.

The source stated that there is good chance Yingluck will apply.

Thaksin would bring in two of his business consultants from Shin Corporation, one being the Group Executive Chairman Boonklee Plangsiri, and the other being the company's CEO Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisarn, to assist Yingluck if she becomes prime minister.

-- Tan Network 2011-04-12

[xminator]

There is more money behind the current government then what Thaksin can ever dream of hoarding. There is a reason why Abhisit where muscled into power.

[Oberkommando]

There is more money behind the current government then what Thaksin can ever dream of hoarding. There is a reason why Abhisit where muscled into power.

Indeed but some still can't see the wood for the trees.

[Lancelot]

Miss Yingluk got the good looks in the family

[webfact]

Snoh and Chavalit are reportedly against the idea to make Yingluck Shinawatra Pheu Thai Party's PM candidate. /via@tulsathit

[Junglejumbo]

I think his son, Pinkonthai, should be groomed to take over otherwise it indicates he's a failure in the eyes of his father. North Korea's air apparent is only 26.

[animatic]

Snoh and Chavalit are reportedly against the idea to make Yingluck Shinawatra Pheu Thai Party's PM candidate. /via@tulsathit

She's too young for them to ever bend the knee too.

Of course the two old goats are not pleased.

Edited April 12, 2011 by animatic

[animatic]

I think his son, Pinkonthai, should be groomed to take over otherwise it indicates he's a failure in the eyes of his father. North Korea's air apparent is only 26.

PM Oak...

5555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555555

You must be taking the piss mate!

[Crushdepth]

Snoh and Chavalit are reportedly against the idea to make Yingluck Shinawatra Pheu Thai Party's PM candidate.

They have no choice. This is a democracy you know.

[yoshiwara]

There is more money behind the current government then what Thaksin can ever dream of hoarding. There is a reason why Abhisit where muscled into power.

Indeed but some still can't see the wood for the trees.

Thaksin dreams of hoarding it alright. As a former member of the establishment (and builder of an alternative one he thinks) his 'overreacher' strategy is to have it all under his direction. Thaksin is the one who thought he could muscle his way to the top and last year gave us a taste of it. Never forget that Thaksin always but always accuses the other side of exactly what he himself is doing. It is one of his traits. So when forum Thaksin apologists parrot the master, throwing out the words 'muscle' and 'more money' we know at least that they are good pupils.

Sister? For Thaksin more collateral damage.

Edited April 12, 2011 by yoshiwara

[Oberkommando]

I often wonder what it is like to be so blinded by hatred for a person that any rational thought to the current political instability is hitherto impossible.

It is worrying that after multiple coups, numerous constitutions, juntas, fascist dictators, brutal actions by the military, lack of accountability for military human rights abuses and so and so on, that people still remain fixated on a populist politician and successful businessman that is now in exile, rather than the proven and consistent danger of the last seven decades.

[Insight]

There's a far more reasonable analysis on the Post mentioning this move could ultimately backfire; the large numbers of undecided voters may simply see her as a Shinawatra, meaning more of the red vs yellow nonsense, and decide against it owing to the troubles over the past 9 years.

[hyperdimension]

I often wonder what it is like to be so blinded by hatred for a person that any rational thought to the current political instability is hitherto impossible.

It is worrying that after multiple coups, numerous constitutions, juntas, fascist dictators, brutal actions by the military, lack of accountability for military human rights abuses and so and so on, that people still remain fixated on a populist politician and successful businessman that is now in exile, rather than the proven and consistent danger of the last seven decades.

You are looking at the bigger picture, which will take time (generations?) for it to improve. Most of the rest of us are looking at the short term (possibly laying foundations for the longer term) which is the election, which is mostly Thaksin versus Abhisit and the Democrats. Which is the better choice if you had to choose?

Edited April 12, 2011 by hyperdimension

[Buchholz]

Yingluck's increasing presence in news headlines has to do with the fact that Mingkwan Saengsuwan faces the same fate as Yongyuth Wichaidit. Thaksin has tried and tested Mingkwan but is not satisfied.

This "testing" mirrors exactly what was said by an insider months ago regarding Thaksin floating Mingkwan out there as Censure Debate Leader in an apparent facade to have Mingkwan assume the leadership role within PTP.

At the same time, predicting that he would fail at that role, he then could push his real first choice Yingluck into the leadership role.

The only real modification to the December 2010 plan seems to be a shift her from Party Leader to that of PM.

Interesting article in the other paper which indicates that Thaksin is only reciprocating on Mingkwan by acknowledging Mingkwan's own financial contributions to the Pheu Thai Party.

It's also apparently a set up for failure as he has assigned Mingkwan to lead the censure debate and he has zero prior experience with that.

With this expected task failure, Thaksin will then shift his support to a new Party Leader, the one he has apparently wanted all along...

his younger sister, Yingluk Shinawatra;

who the sources said is expected to become Party Leader before the next general election.

Edited April 12, 2011 by Buchholz