CHIANG RAI — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra defended herself against social media criticism about allegedly neglecting flood-hit southern provinces while touring the northern region, emphasizing that providing aid takes priority over making public appearances.
During her visit to Mae Sai Customs checkpoint in Chiang Rai province, the Prime Minister addressed the flooding situation in Thailand’s southern border provinces. She confirmed that deputy prime ministers and ministers were dispatched to the affected areas immediately after the floods began. While in Chiang Rai, she discussed flood relief measures with various banks, which she plans to implement in the southern provinces as well.
When questioned about social media criticism, the Prime Minister responded personally, noting her family connections to the South through her husband. “How could I neglect the South when my husband and his family are southerners? From the moment the flooding occurred, Deputy Prime Ministers Anutin Charnvirakul, and Phumtham Wechayachai, and other officials have been coordinating relief efforts, communicating through the night via LINE and phone calls.”
She explained that the cabinet meeting in Chiang Mai had been planned months in advance as part of economic recovery and tourism promotion efforts. “Having ministers and deputy prime ministers deployed to different areas doesn’t mean we’re ignoring any region. Each official has their responsibilities, and we need to divide the work efficiently,” she stated.
Regarding her personal visit to the South, the Prime Minister explained that timing is crucial: “We need to consider the situation carefully. When I visit, local officials would need to organize reception protocols while dealing with floods. It’s more appropriate to wait until the situation stabilizes before making a site visit.”
“The government has been responsive – representatives and resources were dispatched immediately. Our flood response in the South has been swift, with aid reaching affected areas quickly. This is more important than any individual’s physical presence,” she emphasized.
The Prime Minister concluded by addressing regional concerns: “Please keep an open mind. Though I’m from the North, I’m married to a southerner, and many of my colleagues are from the South. This shouldn’t be dramatized. Everyone, regardless of their region, is Thai, and I promised to be a Prime Minister for all Thai people – a promise I intend to keep.
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