Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has supported the Pheu Thai party, asserting that it is not a neo conservative party, but a reformist one, originating from its establishment as the Thai Rak Thai party, which was later dissolved by the Constitutional Court.
During a video conference address to party members at the general Pheu Thai party meeting on Friday, Thaksin, who is currently on parole, stated that the now nonexistent Thai Rak Thai party brought about various changes to Thai society, such as the 30-baht universal health security system, village funds, and price guarantees for farm products.
He mentioned that the Pheu Thai party has been continuing the reformist policies of its predecessor and is now initiating the “digital wallet” scheme, which he referred to as a “super new idea”.
“Today, we are definitely not stuck with outdated issues, because the world has changed and the Pheu Thai party must change,” said Thaksin, adding that capitalism lacking compassion will not bring happiness to people and that reaching out to the people, physically or through the media, is crucial.
He expressed confidence in Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, whom he believes will be capable of leading the country due to his experience as a business executive, emphasizing the importance of having extensive connections.
Regarding his youngest daughter Paetongtarn, the Pheu Thai party leader, Thaksin stated that he is sure she is able to lead the party to bring back its glorious past, as she inherits the DNA of her mother, Khunying Potjaman Damapong, and himself.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Srettha, in his address to party members, pledged that he would fully dedicate himself, physically and mentally, during his term in office to lead the party to victory in the next general election.
“Today, our lawn may not be green, but we have fertiliser and a lawn mower. If we all help out, our lawn will turn green. This is our home, we must overcome our bitter past,” said Srettha.
The prime minister said that he will never be a loser all the time, adding that, in his capacity as prime minister, his only wish is to bring about positive transition and to restore victory for the Pheu Thai party in the next election.
