(Bangkok, 22nd) Wisut Chainaroon, leader of Thailand’s ruling coalition party bloc in parliament, has confirmed that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra will attend the coalition government’s party dinner to be held this coming Tuesday.
He dismissed external concerns that Thaksin’s attendance might be seen as an attempt to manipulate his own party or interfere in government operations.
Wisut is a party-list MP for the ruling Pheu Thai Party. He stated that Thaksin’s attendance is not unusual, as since the current government took office two years ago, coalition MPs have only dined together once. Now that some parties have left the coalition, it is indeed necessary to reestablish communication and coordination to strengthen unity and cooperation, particularly in preparation for the upcoming parliamentary session.
In response to criticism that Thaksin’s presence could be seen as interfering with or directing the party and government, Wisut clarified that simply dining and communicating together does not amount to controlling.
“What is meant by dominating is issuing orders and instructing the party, MPs, or government on what to do. But if he (Thaksin) is simply sharing his knowledge and experience, this should be viewed positively. After all, during his tenure as Prime Minister, the people were very happy. Drawing inspiration from his experience and advice will be beneficial for everyone.”
“Many new MPs have never had the chance to see or hear Thaksin speak in person. For them, this will be a valuable experience,” Wisut added.
Current Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated that this coalition dinner is part of regular interactions among the parties, aimed at helping MPs get to know each other, build relationships, and enhance communication and exchange of views.
He noted that such gatherings are usually not open to the public. “As for whether the media will be allowed in to film, this still needs further discussion and a decision,” Phumtham added.
He dismissed external concerns that Thaksin’s attendance might be seen as an attempt to manipulate his own party or interfere in government operations.
Wisut is a party-list MP for the ruling Pheu Thai Party. He stated that Thaksin’s attendance is not unusual, as since the current government took office two years ago, coalition MPs have only dined together once. Now that some parties have left the coalition, it is indeed necessary to reestablish communication and coordination to strengthen unity and cooperation, particularly in preparation for the upcoming parliamentary session.
In response to criticism that Thaksin’s presence could be seen as interfering with or directing the party and government, Wisut clarified that simply dining and communicating together does not amount to controlling.
“What is meant by dominating is issuing orders and instructing the party, MPs, or government on what to do. But if he (Thaksin) is simply sharing his knowledge and experience, this should be viewed positively. After all, during his tenure as Prime Minister, the people were very happy. Drawing inspiration from his experience and advice will be beneficial for everyone.”
“Many new MPs have never had the chance to see or hear Thaksin speak in person. For them, this will be a valuable experience,” Wisut added.
Current Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated that this coalition dinner is part of regular interactions among the parties, aimed at helping MPs get to know each other, build relationships, and enhance communication and exchange of views.
He noted that such gatherings are usually not open to the public. “As for whether the media will be allowed in to film, this still needs further discussion and a decision,” Phumtham added.