Bangkok, March 25 – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faces a no-confidence motion in parliament starting Monday, as the opposition challenges her administration over economic performance and the alleged influence of her father, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra.
Despite lukewarm approval ratings, Paetongtarn remains in a strong political position, with the ruling coalition maintaining a parliamentary majority, making it unlikely that the motion will succeed in Wednesday’s vote.
Allegations of Familial Influence
The opposition People’s Party has accused Paetongtarn of taking direction from her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, a divisive political figure and billionaire who has dominated Thai politics for over two decades. Thaksin, a former prime minister himself, was banned from holding office due to a conviction for conflicts of interest and abuse of power, which kept him in self-imposed exile for 15 years.
Having returned to Thailand in 2023, Thaksin served six months in detention in a hospital under a government led by the Pheu Thai Party, which he founded, before being released on parole.
Although lawmakers are barred from mentioning Thaksin by name due to parliamentary rules that prohibit references to outsiders, the house speaker has allowed the term "family member" to be used during the debate.
Political Analysts Weigh In
Yuttaporn Issarachai, a political scientist at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, suggested that the opposition’s approach may not resonate with the public.
"The opposition's tactic to delegitimise Paetongtarn's leadership is not new because she already faces criticism from society," he said.
However, he warned that overemphasizing Thaksin’s role rather than addressing pressing economic and security concerns could be counterproductive.
"The focus on Thaksin's role and interference makes it too political and not beneficial to the public, instead of raising issues on the economy and security," Yuttaporn noted.
A Political Legacy Under Scrutiny
Paetongtarn, 38, assumed office in August 2023 after political ally Srettha Thavisin was ousted by the courts over an ethics violation. She is the fourth member of the Shinawatra family to serve as Thailand’s prime minister, further fueling concerns over dynastic politics in the country.
As the no-confidence motion unfolds, the debate is expected to shed light on Thailand’s economic challenges, while rekindling political divisions that have long shaped the country’s governance. However, with the ruling coalition’s firm grip on parliament, Paetongtarn’s position remains secure—for now.
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