BANGKOK — Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed media questions on March 19 regarding criticism from opposition members. She had been criticized for playing with her children (aged 4 years and nearly 2 years) on the Thai Khu Fah Building lawn at Government House instead of meeting with protesters concerned about the invasive climbing Blackchin Tilapia outbreak, despite these events occurring at different times.
Opposition leader Natthapong Ruangpanyawut had suggested this showed a lack of concern for public problems. Meanwhile, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn used harsh words to attack and mock the Prime Minister’s wealthy status, saying she wears pearl-decorated shoes that keep her feet from touching the ground, distancing her from ordinary people.
This caused Pheu Thai Party members to criticize him for displaying an unconstructive political role despite claiming to represent a party of the new generation.
In response, the Prime Minister emphasized that people have multiple dimensions to their lives. She assured reporters that she constantly thinks about work and remains concerned about citizens’ hardships. Regarding the climbing Blackchin Tilapia issue specifically, she noted that she had already directed the Department of Fisheries to address the matter. She added that alongside her official duties, she must also fulfill her role as a mother.
“I take my children to play whenever I have the opportunity,” she explained. “If I can be close to my child, I want to be, but I never let it interfere with my work. On days when my schedule is packed, we don’t see each other—just like any working parents.”
She continued, “This requires understanding human life—everyone deserves their own happiness. Proper time management is essential. Doing one thing doesn’t prevent you from doing another. I recommend everyone take care of their health and allocate time properly, which benefits organizations, families, agencies, and the country as a whole.”
These intensified attacks on the Prime Minister come before the parliament opens a no-confidence debate against her on March 24. The opposition has been gradually releasing publicity claiming that this debate will severely impact the Prime Minister and the government.
The highlight is attacking the Prime Minister for allowing Thaksin Shinawatra to guide and dominate her and the government, with the opposition agreeing to modify the motion’s wording, changing “Thaksin” to “family member” of the Prime Minister.
__________
