Thailand: No-confidence debate shakes the government – ​​what is at stake?

Thailand's prime minister is facing her first vote of no confidence since taking office. A wide-ranging debate began in parliament on Monday, with the opposition sharply criticizing the government's handling of the economy and issues of transparency.

The opposition accuses the government of failing to mitigate the economic downturn and neglecting welfare issues. The government is also criticized for allowing family members to influence politics without clear transparency or accountability.

A senior former military leader also criticized the government's proposal to legalize so-called integrated entertainment complexes, which according to him risks paving the way for corruption and skewed distribution of profits.

The Prime Minister responded directly in parliament, defending her policies. She rejected claims of economic mismanagement and said that the government's actions are aimed at stabilization and long-term growth.

Another controversial topic is the Prime Minister's transfer of shares worth 390 million baht to a family member after taking office. The opposition questions whether this was done in line with the law and whether it was a sale or a gift.

The debate is expected to last until Wednesday morning, with a total of 37 hours divided between the opposition, the government and the speaker. The vote is scheduled for later this week.

Prime Minister of Thailand

• First name Paetongtarn Shinawatra
• Title: Prime Minister (since August 2023)
• Set off: Phu Thai
• Background: Born 1986. Daughter of the former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Has previously worked in the business world and the party's strategic bodies.
• Government formation: Became Prime Minister after the 2023 election through a coalition government that also includes parties with a military background.
• Political focus: Economic growth, social programs and attempts at national reconciliation.

Political parties in Thailand

• Pheu Thai Party: Founded in 2008. Center-left party with strong support in northern and northeastern Thailand. Has connections to the Thaksin family.
• Move Forward Party: Progressive opposition party. Received the most votes in the 2023 election but was stopped from forming a government. Strongest among young voters.
• United Thai Nation Party: Conservative party that nominated Prayut Chan-o-cha as Prime Minister in 2023. Has support from pro-military groups.
• Bhumjaithai Party: Regional party with a focus on health policy and decentralization. Has been part of several coalition governments.
• Democratic Party: Thailand's oldest party. Has lost support in recent years but has historically had a strong position in southern Thailand.

Text: The editorial staff

Image license: Thai PBS News