credit - aachener-zeitung.de
Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is set to face a heated no-confidence debate in parliament starting Monday, as the opposition seeks to challenge her leadership over economic shortcomings and her father’s influence on governance.
Opposition’s Key Accusations
- Weak Economic Growth: Thailand’s 2.5% GDP growth in 2024 lags behind its regional peers.
2. Thaksin’s Shadow: Critics argue her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, remains the real power behind the government.
3. Controversial Policies: His push for gambling legalization, cryptocurrency adoption, and a $14 billion cash handout has drawn scrutiny.
Thaksin’s Influence: A Political Flashpoint
Thaksin, a highly polarizing figure in Thai politics, has played a dominant role for over 24 years. After returning from exile in 2023, he served a six-month detention before being released on parole. While Paetongtarn denies external influence, Thaksin himself has frequently voiced support for government policies.
Will the Censure Motion Succeed?
Despite the political tension, Paetongtarn’s ruling coalition holds a solid parliamentary majority, making the motion highly unlikely to pass when it goes to a vote on Wednesday. However, the debate will shine a spotlight on her government’s struggles with economic revitalization and Thaksin’s ongoing political clout.
As Thailand’s second-largest economy struggles to gain momentum, the outcome of this debate could shape public perception ahead of future elections.
