BANGKOK: Thailand’s former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has declared he is not returning to the premiership and will not seek to do so.
Instead, he will focus on supporting the political career of his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and helping to improve living standards for Thais, including a pledge to reduce electricity costs to 3.70 baht (15 Singapore cents) per unit in 2025.
Speaking at a local campaign rally for Salakjit Tiyapairat, who is running for president of the Chiang Rai Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) under the Pheu Thai party banner, Thaksin addressed the nation’s substantial public debt.
The ruling party has requested a two-year timeframe to tackle the mounting national debt crisis.
During his speech, Thaksin highlighted what he views as a critical issue facing Thailand: the prevalence of inefficient partners across various sectors, particularly in the public service.
He said that the government is currently engaging with civil servants to enhance productivity and meet governmental targets.
Regarding electricity prices, Thaksin made a firm commitment to reduce rates to 3.7 baht per unit, though he had initially aimed for 3.5 baht. He also promised cuts in the costs of animal feed, fertiliser and medicine within the year.
The former premier outlined three key government priorities for 2025: tackling drug-related issues, eliminating fraudulent call centres, and dismantling monopolies to reduce living costs for Thai citizens.
When supporters in the crowd called for his return as prime minister, Thaksin dismissed the suggestion, citing his age. He encouraged the audience to support the younger generation instead, making a light-hearted reference to receiving 300 baht for his campaign appearances across three venues that day.
He noted that life away from politics had been more comfortable, mentioning his personal wealth of 60 billion baht.
Salakjit has significant political connections. She is a former Chiang Rai PAO chief and wife of Yongyuth Tiyapairat, who previously served as House Speaker and remains one of Thaksin’s key political allies in northern Thailand.
She is also the mother of Piyarat Tiyapairat, who is a Pheu Thai MP representing Chiang Rai province. - The Nation/ANN
