BANGKOK — Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public appearance on Wednesday since recent political turmoil engulfed his family, delivering sharp criticism of Cambodian leader Hun Sen and revealing what he describes as a calculated betrayal that has destroyed their decades-long friendship.
A Calculated Betrayal
Speaking at the media discussion program “Breaking Through Thailand’s Deadlock” at the Eastin Grand Hotel Phayathai, Thaksin disclosed explosive details about the leaked phone conversation between Hun Sen and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, his daughter. When asked by the host, “Are you still brothers with Hun Sen?,” Thaksin responded: “Let’s say we used to be. He hurt my daughter to this extent – I was shocked that this could happen.”
The appearance marks Thaksin’s return to the spotlight following the Constitutional Court’s temporary suspension of his daughter from the prime minister’s office on July 1, due to controversy over leaked audio recordings of diplomatic conversations between Paetongtarn and Hun Sen regarding border checkpoint negotiations.
The Setup: Three Hours of Waiting
Thaksin revealed what he believes was a deliberate orchestration of the recording incident. On the day in question, Paetongtarn had called to inform him she was going to the Rosewood Hotel to meet with interpreter Klaing Hvat, who would facilitate a phone call with Hun Sen.
Recognizing the importance of the diplomatic conversation, the Prime Minister invited key officials to join: Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, and Prime Minister’s Secretary-General Dr. Prommin Lertsuridej.
However, after waiting nearly three hours, Hun Sen failed to call. Hvat claimed the Cambodian leader was sleeping. Thaksin then advised his daughter to dismiss the delegation and return home. Suspiciously, Hun Sen called Paetongtarn’s number immediately after the ministers had left.
“This raises questions about whether Hun Sen was actually sleeping or if this was a strategic ploy to record the conversation after ensuring the ministers weren’t present,” Thaksin said. “It’s heartbreaking that he could do this.”
The Scam Connection
Thaksin suggested the deteriorating relationship may stem from Thailand’s serious crackdown on scam operations, particularly after he identified a 25-story building on the Cambodian side as a scammer hub. Police investigations subsequently uncovered extensive evidence linking scam networks to money laundering operations involving Huiwan Company, which is blacklisted by the United States.
The company’s major shareholder is reportedly Chinese, handling various money laundering activities, with Hun Sen’s nephew Hun To also holding shares. This revelation adds a layer of complexity to the diplomatic fallout, suggesting economic interests may have influenced the relationship breakdown.
A Friendship Destroyed
The emotional toll of the betrayal was evident in Thaksin’s words. “I was very close to Hun Sen, truly close. I never imagined someone so close could act this way,” he stated. “But when national problems arise, I prioritize the country’s issues above all else. As for whether we remain friends, I suspect we’ve both forgotten each other’s names.”
Thaksin emphasized that Hun Sen’s actions didn’t damage Thailand but rather destroyed his own credibility. “No one associates with him anymore, and no one dares to speak with him now because you never know if conversations are being recorded,” he concluded.
Looking Forward: From OTOP to ThaiWORKS
Earlier in the day, at the SPLASH – Soft Power Forum 2025 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Thaksin had delivered a keynote speech on Thailand’s creative economy, presenting his vision titled “Crafting the Future: From OTOP to ThaiWORKS and Beyond.”
Reflecting on his signature One Tambon One Product (OTOP) program launched in 2002, Thaksin credited Japanese inspiration and collaboration for its success. The initiative, based on Japan’s Oita Prefecture model and the concept of “Ichigo Ichie” (one time, one meeting), achieved remarkable results with support from JETRO and multiple Thai ministries.
International Branding
The former premier outlined his new ThaiWORKS initiative, an extension of OTOP developed with branding expert Peter Arnell, who previously worked with Samsung.
Thaksin highlighted the branding challenge facing Thai products, noting that while a Hermès scarf sells for 50,000 baht, comparable Thai scarves sell for only 2,000 baht.
“If Hermès has popular patterns like horse saddles and carriages, Thailand also has intriguing patterns like Ban Chiang,” he explained. His strategy involves building a collective “Thailand” brand umbrella, allowing individual brands to develop under “Thailand by [brand name]” before establishing their own identity.
The plan includes establishing showrooms in major cities and shopping centers worldwide to showcase Thai products and craftsmanship.
Political Setbacks and Persistence
Thaksin acknowledged that political instability has repeatedly disrupted his economic initiatives. His original plan to establish alternating OTOP showrooms and development spaces on Rajadamnoen Avenue was derailed by political turmoil in late 2005, followed by subsequent coups that interrupted progress.
“Thailand wastes more time on senseless politics than on substantive matters, leading to constant neglect of important issues,” he lamented.
Creative Economy as National Strength
Despite setbacks, Thaksin emphasized his commitment to Thailand’s creative economy, positioning it as a long-term national strength alongside technological advancement. He noted growing global demand for handmade items in an increasingly machine-dominated world.
“Now I’m back, and I’ll refresh the old designs and see how to drive it forward,” he declared. “Whether I’m in government or not, I won’t stop doing this. I’m funding all of this myself because I want it to be a social enterprise for the Thai people, not for politics.”
At 76, Thaksin expressed urgency about implementing his vision, stating he is “impatient” and “unsure how long I will live,” urging quick action once the Prime Minister returns to work.
Government Cooperation Essential
For the ThaiWORKS initiative to succeed, Thaksin stressed the need for serious government commitment, particularly from the Ministry of Interior, which he described as crucial for bringing policies to the people.
He announced plans to discuss the ThaiWORKS concept with Peter Arnell on July 10, identifying implementation strategies for villages and communities while engaging SMEs in the broader vision.
Thai Film Industry Potential
Addressing Thailand’s soft power through cinema, Thaksin praised the Thai film industry’s increasing systematization and success with new generations creating content for clear target audiences. He noted Hollywood’s interest in purchasing Thai film scripts, citing Thais’ storytelling abilities.
“If they make good quality films and open up wider markets with government support, by discussing financing with financial institutions, Thai films can grow and the market will expand,” he said.
Call for Unity Over Jealousy
In a pointed commentary on Thai society, Thaksin criticized the tendency toward jealousy and political drama, making a satirical reference to Thais’ skill in writing “political dramas with many melodramatic plots.”
“We already have good things. We have Thai people with our bloodline. We must use them to benefit,” he concluded. “But the important thing is, once something is created and a person starts to grow, others become jealous. So, that kind of person should let go of this sometimes and visit temples.”
The speech represents Thaksin’s attempt to shift focus from political controversies to economic development, positioning himself as a dedicated advocate for Thailand’s creative economy regardless of his political status.
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