Yongyuth's legacy - a headache for Thaksin

There are three key points I wish to make on this. First, it amazes me that Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra called his resignation “a sacrifice” for the party’s longevity. Likewise, a Pheu Thai key figure called Yongyuth’s action “courageous”. This begs the question, what should we call other politicians whose hands are dirty but who won’t resign?

Second, like most political observers, I doubt Yongyuth’s resignation was of his own accord. Rather, it stemmed from many sources, including the big boss in Dubai and the Democrats’ pressure. Even more important is the highly coveted Interior Ministry post eyed by the 111 former Thai Rak Thai and current Pheu Thai members. The fact that Yongyuth’s resignation leaves two posts, not one, empty should not be ignored. 

Third, a Pheu Thai MP for Bangkok, Wicharn Meenchainant, called on the Democrats to stop “picking on” Yongyuth. To this I will say that the Democrats are merely doing their job. They are there to put pressure and scrutinise the government’s actions. Yongyuth happened to be the “weakest link”. And let’s not forget that last month it was the Democrats who were “picked on” by the DSI. 

In any case, I can smell a Cabinet reshuffle coming – be it a minor or major shake-up. It will be interesting to see the cajoling and string-pulling for key ministerial posts from various factions within Pheu Thai. One thing is certain: Despite Thaksin’s enormous power, he won’t be able to make everyone in his party happy.

Edward Kitlertsirivatana

Bangkok