24-8-2024 (BANGKOK) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has dismissed suggestions that her father, former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is exerting undue influence over her administration.
The premier’s comments came in the wake of Thaksin’s appearance at the “Vision for Thailand 2024” event, where he outlined proposals to reinvigorate Thailand’s stagnant economy. The gathering, which took place on Thursday, drew a diverse audience including politicians, diplomats, and investors.
When questioned about whether her father’s economic proposals at the event were indicative of the new government’s policies, Ms Shinawatra was quick to draw a clear distinction. “My father does not hold any official position in the government,” she stated. “He was merely expressing his personal vision, which admittedly shares some similarities with Pheu Thai’s policy platform.”
Addressing criticisms head-on, the Prime Minister firmly rejected notions of her father’s dominance over her or the new administration. “I can assure you, he is not attempting to control matters,” she asserted. “I am fully capable of independent thought and decision-making.”
Despite distancing herself from direct paternal influence, Ms Shinawatra acknowledged the potential value of her father’s economic acumen. “Our economy requires stimulus measures, and my father’s extensive experience in economic management could prove beneficial to the nation,” she remarked.
The Prime Minister also touched upon the controversial digital wallet handout policy, a flagship initiative of the Pheu Thai Party. Despite recent setbacks, including the Constitutional Court’s dismissal of Srettha Thavisin as prime minister, Ms Shinawatra indicated that the scheme is likely to proceed, albeit with modifications. “Initially, funds will be distributed in cash to vulnerable individuals via the existing welfare card system,” she explained.
In a demonstration of her commitment to economic revitalisation, Ms Shinawatra met with representatives from various private sector organisations on Friday. The delegation, which included members from the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries, the Thai Bankers’ Association, and the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, presented a range of proposals aimed at addressing Thailand’s economic challenges.
Emphasising the crucial role of the private sector in driving economic growth, the Prime Minister pledged to give serious consideration to their suggestions. “Once my cabinet is fully formed, I will ensure that these proposals are thoroughly examined and, where appropriate, implemented,” she promised.
Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, put forward a series of urgent economic stimulus measures. These included restoring investor confidence through budget decentralisation, boosting purchasing power among vulnerable groups, and implementing tax incentives to stimulate spending among more affluent citizens.
