BANGKOK — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has downplayed concerns about potential rifts within the coalition government following controversial comments made by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during a Pheu Thai Party seminar last Friday.
Thaksin had criticized some coalition partners for being “sneaky” and avoiding a cabinet meeting regarding an international tax measure decree.
“I hate sneaky people. If we work together, we must be straightforward. Either you’re in or you’re out. If you’re in, we fight together. When it’s a joint government policy that you approved by raising your hand, you can’t just slowly withdraw once you get your ministerial position,” Thaksin stated at the seminar.
The remarks sparked criticism from opposition members who suggested possible fractures within the coalition government, while coalition parties denied being the target of Thaksin’s comments.
Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, drew particular attention after previously being criticized by Thaksin for rushing to oppose proposed amendments to the Defense Act “to look good.” Regarding the recent incident, Anutin explained that he had a medical appointment and was unaware of the rescheduled cabinet meeting, which he attended immediately after his check-up.
“Being part of the government means working together as a mandatory fight for the country’s and people’s benefit. We’ve never had issues with each other,” Anutin stated.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn, speaking before her visit to Malaysia on December 15, suggested that her father’s comments reflected his experience working with coalition partners. “I can reach out to all coalition party leaders anytime I need help. I don’t think there are any issues. I believe Thaksin was speaking broadly about the need for coalition parties to support each other and remain united,” she explained.
When reporters mentioned opposition criticism that Thaksin’s comments reflected government instability, Paetongtarn laughed and responded, “The opposition could try being more supportive sometimes. It would create a better atmosphere in the country.”
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