Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra opened up about Thailand’s current heated political situation during the “55th Anniversary of NATION: Breaking Thailand’s Deadlock – Exclusive Talk with Three Thought Leaders,” hosted by Nation Group.
Thaksin addressed concerns raised by many over a perceived political stalemate, remarking, “If it’s a dead end, it means someone has blocked it; if you pull that out, it’s no longer blocked. Problems arise and can be solved at the source.” He implied that the seeming gridlock in politics is the result of the interests of certain individuals.
He also noted that today’s political scene is complicated by what he called “legal warfare”.” When asked about changes in “legal warfare,” Thaksin explained that things are different now. “It isn’t stronger or harsher than before, just different,” he said. In the past, there was a ‘command and control’ approach, but now it’s about making claims and letting authorities consider them independently—the rules haven’t disappeared, but have become more standardized than in the past. He also affirmed that every problem has a solution, stressing, “I can confidently say it’s not a dead end.”
On the matter of a political impasse that could arise after the Bhumjaithai Party withdraws from the coalition government, Thaksin clarified that the Pheu Thai-led government faces obstacles in advancing its campaign promises, particularly in matters entrusted to the Ministry of Interior, including drug issues, poverty alleviation, debt relief, OTOP (One Tambon, One Product), and land tenure policies like the 99-year land use initiative.
Regarding solutions to political problems, Thaksin maintained that these are not causes for concern and can be addressed through “political mathematics”—that is, managing parliamentary support. He reiterated his belief that the government is not at a dead end and can continue to govern effectively.
Thaksin further voiced his confidence that the current situation does not constitute a political stalemate, saying, “Problems are made to be solved; obstacles must be overcome. Is it a dead end? No, it is not.” He outlined several scenarios should the Constitutional Court rule on the Prime Minister’s case: If Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is cleared, she returns to work with renewed vigor to push forward government policies. Should the outcome be otherwise, two options exist: nominate Mr. Chaikasem Nitisiri, the Pheu Thai Party’s third prime ministerial candidate, or dissolve parliament. Thaksin stressed that Chaikasem is in good health, even joking that he is fit enough to play golf comfortably.
Thaksin also discussed the ongoing case where Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has had to temporarily step aside while the Constitutional Court deliberates on a petition against her. He expressed confidence that Paetongtarn would be able to resume her position as prime minister once the case is concluded.
