Thai PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra Rejects Allegations of Being Overshadowed by Ex-PM Thaksin
Bangkok, The Gulf Observer: Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has strongly dismissed allegations from the People’s Party that she is overshadowed by her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, suggesting instead that the opposition party might itself be influenced by external forces.
Speaking on the second day of the censure debate, PM Paetongtarn firmly rejected claims from opposition leader Natthapong Ruengpanyawut that her administration is controlled by Thaksin, stating that such accusations are baseless.
“The opposition keeps bringing up leadership concerns that are unfounded,” she said. “Actually, it might not just be me who’s being accused of being dominated. He [Natthapong] has also faced similar allegations. The difference is that I am accused of being influenced by my father, while he is allegedly dominated by someone else. But I don’t want anyone to say that.”
Her remarks appeared to hint at Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, former leader of the now-defunct Future Forward Party, which was the predecessor of the dissolved Move Forward Party and the current People’s Party.
PM Paetongtarn also cautioned Natthapong against devaluing her leadership and reaffirmed her respect for him. She further defended her openness to Thaksin’s advice, emphasizing that his extensive knowledge and experience are recognized both domestically and internationally.
“It would not be wrong for me to listen to or consider his advice. If his ideas benefit the country and the people, I am confident they are valuable,” she stated.
