Thaksin Sh Visualized Collaborating as Lobbyist in U.S. Commerce Gathering, According to Phumtham
In a surprising turn of events, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was invited to join a high-level meeting with US trade negotiators and the Prime Minister's advisers on July 11, 2025. The meeting aimed to discuss the looming US tariff challenge on Thai goods, but Thaksin was not officially appointed as a negotiator by the Thai government.
Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira extended the invitation to Thaksin, citing his extensive knowledge and lobbying skills as valuable for the discussions. However, the exact nature of Thaksin's role in the meeting was a consultation and advisory one, rather than an official appointment as a trade negotiator.
Despite the clarification, the invitation drew criticism and calls for investigation into ethical concerns. Activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana lodged a complaint against Pichai, accusing him of ethics violations related to Thaksin's presence in an official meeting. Ruangkrai requested the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate Pichai over these allegations.
Phumtham Wechayachai, the Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, defended Thaksin's involvement, justifying it by citing his lobbying skills and his close relationship with US President Donald Trump. Phumtham asserted that no one should criticize the decision to include Thaksin in the discussion, as he could potentially use his personal ties to the benefit of Thailand.
It is important to note that Thaksin is legally barred from taking political office. Despite this, Phumtham Wechayachai explained that Thaksin's opinions were sought due to his expertise, not his political status.
Meanwhile, on a separate note, the Culture Minister vowed to rebuild Buddhist faith after scandals, while the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) nurtured young Go masters, with 753 students competing at the 'Chang Noi Games'. In the realm of public safety, Bangkok joined a nationwide drug crackdown called "No Drugs No Dealers", and the Bangkok Deputy Governor addressed concerns over On Nut waste plant emissions.
As Thailand navigates these complex issues, the country continues to grapple with the implications of Thaksin's involvement in high-level discussions, maintaining a delicate balance between political strategy and ethical accountability.
- The invitation to Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to join a high-level meeting was extended by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, acknowledging Thaksin's extensive knowledge and lobbying skills.
- Despite being legally barred from political office, Thaksin's opinions were sought for the high-level meeting due to his expertise, as stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.
- Activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana lodged a complaint against Pichai, claiming ethics violations related to Thaksin's presence in the official meeting and requested an investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Commission.
- The meeting, which aimed to discuss US tariff challenges on Thai goods, also raised concerns about policy and legislation, business, and economy, amidst tensions between politics and general news.
