Thaksin suggests Pheu Thai party reorganizes government, fortifies control over crucial ministries
Exclusive Interview with Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra
On Nation TV's program 3 Editors, held on May 30, 2025, Thaksin Shinawatra, the former PM, played the role of a "fourth news editor" to analyze the current political landscape.
During the program, he offered strategic advice to Pheu Thai, the leading coalition partner, recommending they Consider a Cabinet Reshuffle to Gain Control of Key Ministries. These include Interior, Agriculture, Finance, and Transport. Thaksin believes that this move would enable the party to effectively implement policies in the remaining two years before the next general election.
He emphasized, "It's crucial to control the Ministry of Interior, as it's the heart of delivering policies to the people. Currently, it's underutilized, and time is running short."
When probed on whether the Pheu Thai Party would be brave enough to make such a power move, Thaksin admitted he hadn't discussed the matter directly with party leaders but acknowledged that it could be an opportunity the party should seize. He explained, "It's vital for the party to show its commitment to the electorate, especially if the goal is to win public support at the polls."
Thaksin also discussed other essential ministries, such as Agriculture, Commerce, Finance, and Transport, that could boost the government's momentum. He stressed the need to deliver on flagship policies like the "20 Baht All Routes" healthcare initiative, warning that failure to do so could erode public confidence in the government.
Regarding the potential withdrawal of the coalition partner, Bhumjaithai Party, if Pheu Thai takes over the Interior Ministry, Thaksin seemed optimistic. "It's unlikely to reach that point because dialogue is possible. We've been working together for a long time." However, he admitted that if changes occur, each party retains the right to make its own decisions beyond anyone's control.
Later, Thaksin addressed the recent leak of a chat from the Medical Council's Line group, which revealed discussions about his stay at the Police General Hospital during his incarceration. He observed that one of the individuals involved occupied a high-ranking position within the Medical Council.
When asked about Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin's veto of the Medical Council's decision to discipline three doctors, Thaksin commented, "If the Medical Council upholds its original decision despite the veto, then the matter will proceed according to the rules. Everything should follow the established regulations."
He further added, "As long as everyone respects the rules, maintains professional ethics, and has no prejudice against one another, there should be no conflicts. However, sometimes people take sides. Today, Thailand needs to stop dividing into factions and choose to stand with the people and the country. That is the way to bring peace. The media should avoid amplifying conflicts so that tensions can diminish."
Regarding personal appearances at the Supreme Court's Criminal Division for Political Office Holders on June 13, Thaksin stated, "I'm not sure yet. I need to consult with my legal team first."
When asked about Seripisut Temiyavet, leader of the Thai Liberal Party, who predicted that if the June 13 ruling is unfavorable, Thaksin would flee the country, he countered, "You should ask Seripisut where he got that information."
After returning to Thailand in August 2023 to face legal proceedings, Thaksin Shinawatra was incarcerated as ordered by the court. During his first night in captivity, he was transferred to the Police General Hospital for medical treatment due to health concerns. This event sparked controversy and public debate.
Thailand's present political landscape is characterized by escalating tension and strategic positioning, especially after suggestions by Thaksin about a cabinet reshuffle and controlling key ministries. The proposed reshuffle risks alienating coalition partners and triggering further instability during an already tumultuous political period.
- TAGS
- Thaksin
- NationTV
- Political Landscape
- Pheu Thai Party
- Coalition Partners
- Public Support
- Governance
- Opposition
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- Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra provided strategic insights during an interview on Nation TV's 3 Editors, delving into the current political landscape, recommending a potential Cabinet reshuffle to give Pheu Thai control over key ministries like Interior, Agriculture, Finance, and Transport.
- Thaksin's proposed move aims to enable Pheu Thai to effectively implement policies in the remaining two years before the next general election and gain public support, emphasizing the importance of controlling the Ministry of Interior to efficiently deliver policies to the people.
- The Pheu Thai Party's readiness to make such a power move remains uncertain, though Thaksin acknowledged the potential benefits of seizing the opportunity to show commitment to the electorate.
- Apart from the Interior Ministry, Thaksin also highlighted the significance of other ministries like Agriculture, Commerce, Finance, and Transport in boosting the government's momentum and implementing flagship policies like the "20 Baht All Routes" healthcare initiative, which could help maintain public confidence.
- In addition to political matters, Thaksin addressed the recent Medical Council chat leak and commented on Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin's veto, urging everyone to respect rules and regulations, maintain professional ethics, and avoid factional conflicts.
